California Patriot Profile: San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow

A Veteran Prosecutor Upholding Justice and Accountability in One of California’s Safest Communities - Safe By Action, Not By Accident

⏰ 5 minute read

Since 2014, Dan Dow has served as San Luis Obispo County’s District Attorney, protecting victims, enforcing the rule of law, and promoting personal responsibility in a region known for low crime and strong community ties.

A Career Rooted in Service and Discipline

From his early days in the military to his rise in the prosecutor’s office, Dan Dow’s path reflects a commitment to duty and excellence. Enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1989, Dow served in active duty, the Reserves, and the California Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before promotion to Colonel in 2024. He served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn, earning the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service in Iraq (2010–2011), as well as in Kosovo under Operation Enduring Freedom, and completed a seven-month deployment in the Middle East with the 40th Infantry Division in 2023-2024. While leading the DA’s office, he managed these duties, returning to his post in March 2024 after deployment, showing the resilience that earns respect from his community.

Dow began his legal career as a Deputy District Attorney in Riverside County starting in November 2005, refining his skills before moving to San Luis Obispo County as a Deputy DA in December 2007 and winning election as DA in 2014. He leads a team of over 100 professionals dedicated to reducing crime through fair and firm enforcement. His approach stresses that people capable of making sound decisions are responsible for their choices—and when they break the law, accountability ensures community safety.

Leadership on State and National Stages

Dow’s influence extends far beyond local courtrooms. As a family man deeply invested in his community, he has received recognition like the John L. Seitz Community Service Award and the 2018 RISE Up Respect Award for his advocacy on behalf of crime survivors. He frequently speaks at community events honoring veterans and supporting rehabilitation programs.

As the newly elected President of the California District Attorneys Association, Dow prioritizes victims’ rights and prosecutor training statewide, building on years of collaboration to advocate for policies balancing compassion and consequences.

Advocating for Victims and Stronger Laws

A staunch defender of victims’ rights, Dow has been a vocal supporter of Marsy’s Law, which ensures crime victims have a voice in the justice process at every stage. Under his guidance, the SLO County DA’s office provides robust victim services, from impact statements to support during trials, reflecting his belief that justice must heal as well as punish.

"San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow's mission is to bring justice and safety to our county by aggressively and fairly prosecuting crime and protecting the rights of crime victims. Dan is a true professional who does his job with honesty, integrity and credibility."

- John Peschong, San Lois Obispo County Supervisor

Dow played a key role in the 2024 campaign for Proposition 36, the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act, which passed overwhelmingly with nearly 70% voter approval across all 58 California counties. He continues to be a strong voice to urge the Governor and Legislative leaders to fully fund the programs in the ballot measure. This measure strengthens penalties for repeat theft and drug offenses while mandating treatment for addiction. His work reflects a practical approach: ensuring accountability for wrongdoers while providing paths to recovery, without unnecessary government expansion.

Fighting for the Conservative Cause

Dow’s commitment to the rule of law is rooted in a deep belief in personal responsibility and constitutional principles. He holds that people of sound mind have the ability to choose between right and wrong, exercising free will in their decisions. When individuals make poor choices and break the law, Dow believes they must be held accountable to protect the community and uphold justice. This philosophy drives his work, ensuring that the justice system serves as a guardian of order without overstepping into excessive government control. By focusing on accountability over bureaucracy, Dow champions a vision where individuals are empowered to make good decisions, and society is protected when they don’t, all while keeping government restrained and effective.

So, Does It Matter?

At a time when public safety concerns are rising, leaders like Dow make a difference—not just in San Luis Obispo, but as an example for rebuilding trust in the rule of law across California. By championing accountability, supporting victims, and leading reforms like Prop 36, Dow has helped make San Luis Obispo County one of California’s safest places to live, work, and raise a family. His military background and commitment to community show that public servants who emphasize personal responsibility and minimal government interference can strengthen communities.

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Each week we profile a California conservative. Previous profiles have been of the late Andrew Breitbart, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, Political Law Attorney Chuck Bell, Congressman Kevin Kiley, talk radio hosts Dennis Prager and John Kobylt, HJTA President Jon Coupal, actors James Woods, Kelsey Grammer and Gary Sinise, Thomas Sowell, Pro-Liberty Attorney Julie Hamill, Dr. Charles Kesler, Federal Judge Roger Benitez, Victor Davis Hanson, and Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes. You can go here to see them all! If you have an idea for a patriot to profile, let me know!

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