CSAC Member Spotlight: San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller

San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller’s path to public service was shaped early by family and hardship. When his father became disabled, he witnessed “the power of government… to help people,” and the strength of community support. Years later, advice from his wife’s grandfather,  a Great Depression survivor and former prisoner of war, reinforced his belief that with the right people and values, you can rebuild anything. That lesson in resiliency ultimately drew him from a legal career into public office. 

After serving locally on a city council while simultaneously working as a Santa Clara County Supervisor’s Chief of Staff, Supervisor Mueller saw firsthand “what a county could do.” He believes counties sit at the center of public policy, delivering services, supporting vulnerable residents, and turning state and federal dollars into real results. For him, effective public policy is practical, compassionate, and rooted in the daily lives of constituents. 

Supervisor Mueller’s district spans 340 square miles, including nearly the entire San Mateo County coast. He proudly calls it the most beautiful coastline in California (and will happily argue with anyone who says otherwise). One of his favorite spots in his district is Gray Whale Cove because of its crashing waves and reclusiveness, and it also serves as a reminder of why protecting the California Coast and serving its rural communities matter so deeply to him. 

A lifelong learner, Supervisor Mueller reads widely, from history and leadership to books like The Political Brain, which explores how messaging shapes decision-making. He believes strong leaders activate empathy over fear, inspiring hope and thoughtful solutions. That centered mindset continues to guide both his policymaking and his daily interactions. 

Whether opening a satellite office on the coast or chatting with residents at the grocery store, Supervisor Mueller stays present in his district because he believes you won’t understand what people need unless you are truly with them, and “that those moments are where trust is built.” 

His message to fellow county leaders: We are all in this together. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep serving!