I’ve been on this site for many years — first diary. Escondido is a large suburb about 30 miles north of downtown San Diego. Based on unscientific observations I’d say that we are slightly more than half Hispanic (primarily Mexican), a little less than half white with not many blacks and fewer Asians compared to most parts of coastal California. The city has a Hispanic central district (not a barrio — mostly middle class and relatively safe) with a ring of whiter areas with some integration in between. The local economy is based largely on health care, government, small industry, and retail but not many large employers compared to areas to the south and west of here. Many commute to other cities. We have a decent downtown area and my guess is about 100 taco shops — many of them excellent. Historically, this area has been pretty conservative/Republican — it was once said that Escondido was one of the most conservative cities in the county. Maybe 40 years ago this was true but no more! The votes are not entirely counted but it looks like Escondido has elected a Democratic mayor to go along with two of the four councilmen. So that’s pretty cool. It looks like Duncan Hunter will survive and the California House and Senate seats are still R but our little slice of San Diego county has possibly turned a corner. For those not from around here this is a pretty surprising result to say the least. Here a recent article — enjoy.
escondidograpevine.com/...