Tom Miller to kick off fundraising drive for Newport City Council run in March

At the start of the pandemic, Tom Miller said he was losing his mind.

“I told my wife, ‘For the first time in my life, the government has total control over everything — my business, my life, even the beach we live on. I can no longer be sidelined politically. I have to have a voice.’ And her comment was, ‘How are you going to do that? You have a big company. You work 14 hours a day. How are you going to find the time?’

“I said, ‘Sweetie, I always find a way,’” said Miller.

In late January Miller announced his run for the Newport Beach City Council seat for District 1, which encompasses the Balboa Peninsula and West Newport. That district is currently represented by Councilwoman Diane Dixon, who will be terming out this year.

It is also currently the only competitive race. Joe Stapleton announced his run for the same seat in October.

Council members represent districts but are voted in at large.

Other candidates have been announced for the three remaining districts. Erik Weigand is running to replace outgoing Councilman Marshall “Duffy” Duffield in District 3 and Robyn Grant is running for District 4 to replace Mayor Kevin Muldoon.

Councilwoman Joy Brenner announced her run for re-election to District 6, which represents Corona del Mar.

Miller said he expects to begin fundraising in March. He initially hired a campaign team at the end of November but decided to hold off until the first quarter of 2022 because of the busy holiday season.

He has lived in Newport Beach since 2016 and was president and chief executive officer of Dynamic Auto Images until July 2021 when he sold the company. Miller, 59, describes himself as retired.

“Candidly, if I didn’t think I was the best man for the job, I wouldn’t do this,” said Miller. “I truly believe this is the next chapter of my life. I dealt with big government while running my business. I ... lead with humility ... With what I’ve experienced and accomplished in life, I truly believe that I could have a positive impact that I’m retiring in and eventually die in.”

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