Rigel Robinson

Rigel Robinson is an American politician. He was a city councilmember in Berkeley from 2018 to 2024. When he was elected, Robinson became the youngest person ever to hold that job in Berkeley's history. In 2024, he decided to run for mayor of Berkeley, but he stopped his campaign before the election. His time in public service showed his dedication to helping his community.

Early life and education

Rigel Robinson grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He later moved to Berkeley to study at the UC Berkeley. While there, he was elected as the external affairs vice president of the Associated Students of the University of California. Robinson earned his master's degree at the Goldman School of Public Policy while also serving on the city council.

Berkeley City Council

Rigel Robinson was elected to the Berkeley City Council in 2018 when he was 22, making him the youngest councilmember in the city's history. He represented District 7, which includes UC Berkeley, Telegraph Avenue, and nearby neighborhoods.

Robinson worked to build more homes and supported ending rules that limited where homes could be built. He also backed plans to create new student housing and homes for people in need at People's Park. He helped make it easier to build more homes near UC Berkeley. Robinson also pushed for better ways to get around the city, like new bike lanes and safe walking areas. He planned a special public space on Telegraph Avenue without cars.

In 2022, he was re-elected without any opponents. In 2023, he decided to run for mayor of Berkeley but later stopped his campaign and left the city council in early 2024.