Harry Sidhu
Former Mayor
Anaheim, California, United States
About Harry Sidhu
Harish “Harry” Sidhu is a retired American politician, engineer, and business owner based in Anaheim, California. Born in India on July 8, 1957, he immigrated to the United States in 1974 and became a U.S. citizen in 1979. He earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Drexel University in 1978 and spent a decade working in the aerospace industry, including roles at General Dynamics and Rockwell International.
In the early 1990s, Sidhu transitioned to business ownership, purchasing his first Burger King franchise in Southern California. Over time, he expanded his holdings to include 28 locations under brands such as Burger King, Papa John’s, and El Pollo Loco. For the last 15 years, he operated a smaller group of El Pollo Loco restaurants.
Sidhu entered public service in 2004 when he was elected to the Anaheim City Council. He served two full terms until 2012 and held the position of Mayor Pro Tem from 2010 to 2012. In 2018, he was elected as the 46th Mayor of Anaheim, becoming the city’s first Sikh and first person of color to hold the office. His term focused on homelessness, small business support, and COVID-19 response.
Outside of public office, Sidhu has been involved with regional boards including the Orange County Water District and the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority. He is also active in community service through local organizations such as the YMCA and Boys & Girls Club. Sidhu retired from public office in 2022.
Areas of Focus
Career Background
Franchise Owner (Burger King, Papa John’s, El Pollo Loco)
Education
Media
Press
Boards & Memberships
- Orange County Water District Board, Member, 2012 – 2015
- Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority, Alternate Commissioner, 2013 – 2015
- Orange County Sanitation District Board, Director, 2005 – 2011
- Orange County Vector Control District, Board of Trustees Member, 2006 – 2008
- Anaheim Budget Advisory Commission, Member and Chair
- Friends of United States (organization promoting India–U.S. relations), Board Member
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Harry Sidhu do?
Harry Sidhu is a retired politician who served as Mayor of Anaheim, California, for the City of Anaheim. He is also an engineer and business owner who built a career running franchise restaurants after a decade in aerospace.
What is Harry Sidhu known for?
Sidhu is known for becoming the 46th Mayor of Anaheim in 2018, the first Sikh and first person of color to hold that office, with a term focused on homelessness, small business support, and COVID-19 response. He is also recognized for his journey from immigrant to local business owner and civic leader.
Where is Harry Sidhu based?
Harry Sidhu is based in Anaheim, California, United States.
Where did Harry Sidhu study?
Harry Sidhu earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University in 1978.
Who does Harry Sidhu work for?
Sidhu previously served the City of Anaheim as its Mayor before retiring from public office in 2022; he has also operated his own franchise restaurant businesses.
Last updated February 20, 2026