Bob Filner, a progressive Democrat who served two decades in Congress and later became the mayor of San Diego, passed away on April 20 at the age of 82. His family has confirmed the death, although no cause or location was provided. Reports indicate he died in an assisted living facility in Costa Mesa, California.
Filner, known for his brash demeanor, resigned as mayor in August 2013 under pressure following allegations of sexual misconduct from 18 women during his tenure as mayor and in Congress. The accusations included serious claims from a retired Navy rear admiral and his former communications director.
Despite denying any wrongdoing, Filner later pleaded guilty to a felony charge of false imprisonment and misdemeanor charges of battery, resulting in a sentence of three months’ home confinement and three years’ probation. He expressed regret over his mayoral tenure, stating, "I never intended to be a mayor who went out like this."
His political career, marked by significant liberal activism, began in 1979 when he won a seat on the San Diego school board, followed by a position on the City Council in 1987. He was elected to Congress in 1992, where he became a founding member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and chaired the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Filner's commitment to civil rights was evident early in his life when he participated in the Freedom Rides of 1961, which aimed to challenge segregation in the Deep South. His activism led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment in Mississippi.
Born on September 4, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Filner was the son of a labor organizer. He earned a degree in chemistry from Cornell University and later obtained a Ph.D. in the history of science. He taught history at San Diego State University for 20 years before entering politics.
Filner's personal life included two marriages, both of which ended in divorce. He is survived by a son, a daughter, two grandchildren, and a brother.
In July 2013, allegations of sexual harassment against Filner escalated, prompting calls for his resignation from numerous political figures, including Senator Barbara Boxer. He ultimately resigned on August 23, asserting that he was a victim of a "lynch mob mentality."
Following his resignation, Filner pleaded guilty to multiple charges, with prosecution led by Kamala Harris, who stated that his actions constituted both criminal behavior and an abuse of power, emphasizing that no one is above the law.