Background

Caden Cotton-Blake is a lifelong resident of San Pablo who believes the best leaders are those who never stop showing up for their community.

San Pablo elected leadership supporting Caden in community, alongside City Council Member Patricia Ponce.

Following graduation, Caden chose a career in public service. In the Contra Costa County Supervisor's Office, he worked directly with residents to resolve constituent issues and connect people with county services. At the Alameda County District Attorney's Office, he helped develop policy recommendations, supported community engagement efforts, and contributed to initiatives that expanded access to justice. Today, his work with Richmond Land focuses on creating permanently affordable homeownership opportunities and helping families build long-term financial stability.

Representing San Pablo's next generation of leaders at a regional policy conference.

Service doesn't end when the workday is over. Caden has dedicated countless hours to strengthening the community through volunteer leadership. He currently serves as First Vice President of the El Cerrito Branch of the NAACP, President of the Black Young Democrats of the Bay, Deputy Regional Director for the Bay Area Region of the California Young Democrats, Political Affairs Committee Representative for the California Young Democrats, and Treasurer of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. These roles have allowed him to mentor young leaders, build partnerships across communities, and advocate for policies that improve people's lives.

Meeting neighbors where they are, one San Pablo storefront at a time.

Born and raised in San Pablo, Caden attended West Contra Costa Unified School District schools before graduating from Middle College High School at Contra Costa College. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics from San José State University, where he developed a deeper understanding of how public policy and economic decisions impact working families and local communities.

Local business owners across San Pablo rallying behind the campaign.

Now, Caden is running for San Pablo City Council because he believes City Hall should be accessible, accountable, and focused on delivering results. His campaign is centered on strengthening public safety, supporting economic opportunity, expanding housing options, and ensuring every resident has a voice in shaping San Pablo's future.

Speaking up in the rooms where decisions get made, Caden believes local government should be present and engaged with the community it serves.