In 1992, Mark Macarro joined Temecula, California’s Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, after his election as a councilman. Mark Macarro has served numerous consecutive two-year terms as the tribal chairman, dating back to his first term in 2002. As a tribal leader, he promotes political self-determination and economic independence to expand the tribe’s economy without sacrificing the unique cultural identity of the Pechanga Band.
Moreover, Mark Macarro has held many additional leadership roles, including tenures as an alternate area vice president of the National Congress of American Indians Pacific Region and his place on the National Indian Gaming Association board of directors. He has also served as a member of the Electoral College.
Mark Macarro studied political science at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He has received several honors and accolades for his efforts as the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians tribal chairman, including a Pathbreaker Award at the 20th Annual Indian Gaming Regulatory Act Symposium.