Jimenez challenges progressive Richmond mayor in bid for top job

Councilmember Claudia Jimenez secures endorsement of Richmond Progressive Alliance over incumbent Mayor Eduardo Martinez

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Councilmember Claudia Jimenez has announced a bid for mayor of Richmond, challenging incumbent Mayor Eduardo Martinez, a fellow progressive. Jimenez, who was elected to the city council in 2020, said she received encouragement from community members to run sooner than planned. She has secured the endorsement of the Richmond Progressive Alliance, a political advocacy group, over Martinez, who has also been a long-time member of the organization.

Why it matters

The Richmond mayoral race pits two progressive politicians against each other, highlighting potential divisions within the city's left-leaning political landscape. The outcome could impact the city's policy direction on issues like housing, development, and social services. The race also comes after controversy over Martinez's social media posts, which some viewed as antisemitic, raising questions about leadership and community trust.

The details

Jimenez, who represents Richmond's District 6, said her decision to run for mayor came sooner than planned after receiving encouragement from community members. She has pledged not to accept corporate donations and promises to be a "no-nonsense, results-oriented leader." The Richmond Progressive Alliance, a political advocacy group, has endorsed Jimenez's campaign over Martinez, who is seeking reelection. Three other candidates are also running for mayor: nonprofit director Ahmad Anderson, former Councilmember Demnlus Johnson, and conservative Mark Wassberg.

  • Jimenez announced her mayoral bid on February 25, 2026.
  • The Richmond mayoral primary election will be held on June 2, 2026.

The players

Claudia Jimenez

A Richmond city councilmember who represents District 6. She is challenging incumbent Mayor Eduardo Martinez in the 2026 mayoral race.

Eduardo Martinez

The incumbent mayor of Richmond, who is seeking reelection. He has faced scrutiny over social media posts that were viewed as antisemitic.

Richmond Progressive Alliance

A political advocacy group that has endorsed Jimenez's mayoral campaign over the incumbent Martinez.

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What they’re saying

“It's an incredible moment the city of Richmond is in and I feel we have a great opportunity to do bigger things. I feel like I have been showing the community how I can do things and deliver.”

— Claudia Jimenez, Richmond City Councilmember (mercurynews.com)

“As mayor, I will be the no-nonsense, results-oriented leader that Richmond needs today. The future of Richmond is bright, and it belongs to all of us. I'm ready to lead our city into this next chapter with focus, energy, and experience.”

— Claudia Jimenez, Richmond City Councilmember (mercurynews.com)

What’s next

Richmond voters will get their first chance to weigh in on the mayoral election during the June 2, 2026 primary. The top two vote getters will move on to the general election on November 3, 2026, unless a single candidate receives more than 50% of the vote.

The takeaway

The Richmond mayoral race pits two progressive politicians against each other, highlighting potential divisions within the city's left-leaning political landscape. The outcome could impact the city's policy direction on issues like housing, development, and social services, and comes after controversy over the incumbent mayor's social media posts, raising questions about leadership and community trust.