The Temecula City Council unanimously selected Jessica Alexander to serve as mayor for 2026, with Council Member Matt Rahn chosen as mayor pro tempore, during its regular meeting Tuesday evening.
Alexander, who currently serves as mayor pro tempore, was elevated to the city’s top leadership role by a 5–0 vote. Rahn will serve as mayor pro tem and assume mayoral duties in Alexander’s absence. Their one-year terms begin Jan. 1 and run through Dec. 31, 2026.
Following the vote, Alexander thanked her fellow council members and said she looked forward to the year ahead, emphasizing collaboration, professionalism and a shared commitment to the community.
“It is a profound honor to serve as mayor,” Alexander said. “I approach this responsibility grounded in service and shared hope for 2026.”
Alexander was first elected to the Temecula City Council in 2020 and re-elected in 2024. A Marine veteran and former New York Police Department officer, she has been a strong advocate for public safety, infrastructure improvements and maintaining Temecula’s high quality of life.
Her priorities include protecting safe neighborhoods, preserving the city’s parks and family-friendly amenities, and safeguarding the rural character of Temecula’s equestrian areas, as well as the community’s scenic identity from Old Town to Temecula Valley Wine Country.
“Temecula’s success lies in its extraordinary people,” Alexander said. “I am dedicated to working collaboratively and diligently alongside my council colleagues for the well-being of our city and all its residents.”
Rahn was also unanimously selected to serve as mayor pro tempore for 2026.
In additional action, the council appointed Council Member James Stewart as president and Council Member Zak Schwank as vice president of the Temecula Community Services District for the coming year.
As is customary in Temecula, the mayor and mayor pro tempore are selected annually by the City Council from among its members rather than through a public election. The new leadership will be formally installed at the first City Council meeting in January, when committee and board assignments for 2026 are also expected to be finalized.
