Darshana Patel

Incumbent State Assembly Member in San Diego, CA

Darshana Patel is a candidate for State Assembly Member District 76 in California State Assembly District 76, California — 2026 Primary Election.

Also running: Carrie S. Espinoza Villanueva.

Dr. Darshana Patel is a research scientist and politician serving as a member of the California State Assembly representing District 76 since December 2024. A member of the Democratic Party, she previously served as President of the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. Patel holds a B.A. in Biochemistry from Occidental College and a Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of California, Irvine. She worked in biotechnology research before transitioning to public service.