About David Cohen
David Cohen’s commitment to public service is rooted in his family’s belief in opportunity and justice. Raised by parents who ensured he had a fair shot, David grew up with a desire to make his community stronger and more equitable for everyone.
For 14 years, he served the families and students of the Berryessa Union School District. He built relationships with parents, teachers, and students, listened closely to their concerns, and delivered results — safeguarding small class sizes, preserving music and science programs, expanding early literacy, protecting immigrant families, and securing additional funding for local classrooms.
In 2020, David brought that same community-centered leadership to the San José City Council representing District 4. From Alviso to North San José, Berryessa, and River Oaks, he has been an accessible advocate — attending neighborhood meetings, partnering with schools, investing in parks, improving pedestrian safety, and strengthening community life through local events.
On the Council, David helped lead San José through one of its most consequential periods. Over the last five years, the city has delivered more affordable housing than in the previous decade, expanded shelter and services for people experiencing homelessness, advanced climate action policies, and strengthened infrastructure that improves neighborhood safety and quality of life.
Now, David is ready to bring that record of results to the state level at a time when bold leadership is needed. In Sacramento, he will fight for strong investments in public education, defend our environment, and protect civil rights for all people, regardless of nation of origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
With deep local experience, an understanding of statewide challenges, and a steadfast belief in inclusion and opportunity, David Cohen will be a courageous and optimistic voice for California — building a future that reflects our highest values.
In His Own Words
I’m incredibly excited about what we can
accomplish together at the state level.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving our community right here in San José — first as an engineer working alongside some of the most innovative companies in Silicon Valley, then as a leader on the Berryessa Union School District Board, and now on the San José City Council.
Each step of that journey has given me a deeper understanding of what it takes to solve real problems — not in theory, but in practice. Whether it’s improving our schools, building more housing, strengthening public safety, or investing in sustainable infrastructure, I’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful, collaborative leadership can deliver results for families.
Local government teaches you something important: policy isn’t abstract. It affects the street you live on, the school your kids attend, the commute you take to work, and whether your neighborhood feels safe and supported. That experience gives me a practical perspective that I’m ready to bring to Sacramento.
As your State Senator, I know we can do even more — expanding opportunity, tackling affordability, protecting our environment, and making sure government works for the people it serves.
I’m optimistic because I’ve seen what’s possible when we bring people together, listen closely, and focus on solutions. And I’m ready to fight every day to make sure the future of District 10 — and California — is brighter than ever.
