Election 2026: Who is running for Albany City Council?

Five candidates are vying for two Albany City Council seats in November.

In ballot order, they are Robin D. López, Katherine Enos, Jon Destin, Aaron Tiedemann and Chris McDaniels.

We sent each candidate the same set of questions. All but McDaniels replied.

Who is Albany City Council candidate Robin D. López?

“I’m proud to serve Albany in meaningful ways, and I hope I can sustain that trust and confidence for another 4 years!”

Albany ScannerGuest contributor

Who is Albany City Council candidate Katherine Enos?

“I am running for Albany City Council because I want the City to do better.”

Albany ScannerGuest contributor

Who is Albany City Council candidate Jon Destin?

“I’m running because I love Albany, and because this is a consequential moment for our town.”

Albany ScannerGuest contributor

Who is Albany City Council candidate Aaron Tiedemann?

“I believe in the power of local government and our community to make a positive difference in all our lives.”

Albany ScannerGuest contributor

Update, Sept. 24: We've learned McDaniels has been recovering from a medical procedure. We hope to publish his Q&A next week.

Where do the candidates stand?

Candidates discussed housing, taxes and other issues at an Albany Democratic Club forum in August. Our writeup includes video of the full forum.

Albany council candidates clash over housing, taxes

Two candidates defended their work. Others questioned their record.

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Albany uses ranked-choice voting. Voters can rank the candidates in order of preference. Learn how it works.

Albany elections: November 2026 ballot measure guide

Albany has six ballot measures that would change zoning rules, business and property taxes, and funding for city services.

Albany ScannerAllyson Aleksey

When is the next Albany City Council candidate forum?

The League of Women Voters of Berkeley, Albany and Emeryville (LWVBAE) will hold Albany City Council and school board events Oct. 1 at Albany City Hall, 1000 San Pablo Ave. The event begins with school board candidates at 6:30 p.m., followed by City Council candidates at 7:45 p.m. Register online

Election 2026: When can we vote?

Early voting starts Oct. 5 and vote-by-mail ballots go out that week. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.

How do I register to vote?

Learn more from the Alameda County registrar of voters (ROV).

Where and how can I vote?

Albany's only vote center is at the Community Center, 1249 Marin Ave. It's open Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Election Day, Nov. 3, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

See a list of other vote centers and ballot drop boxes. Learn more from the secretary of state (SOS).

How many registered voters does Albany have?

Albany has 12,256 registered voters, according to the ROV.

Where can I see Albany City Council candidate statements? (in ballot order)

• Incumbent Robin D. López
• Small business owner Katherine Enos
• Albany business owner Jon Destin
• Housing policy analyst Aaron Tiedemann
• Public works manager Chris McDaniels 

Learn more about local elections on Albany Scanner and on the city of Albany website.

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