Domingo Candelas was born and raised in Council District 8 of San José, California. He is one of five siblings from immigrant parents who came to Silicon Valley in search of the American Dream from Zacatecas, Mexico. From an early age, Domingo’s family instilled the importance of hard work, perseverance and integrity. He is a proud product of John J. Montgomery Elementary, and Chaboya Middle School of the Evergreen School District as well as Evergreen Valley High School of the East Side Union High School District. 

After completing his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and later his Master’s in Public Administration from San José State University, Domingo started his professional journey as District Director for State Senator Jim Beall. In this role, he worked to develop and implement policy objectives and strategies, and generated support for the Senator's platform by building coalitions with elected officials, agencies, and stakeholder groups.

Domingo's passion for public service continued to drive his career as he went on to provide legislative advocacy at the local and regional level for Valley Water, formerly known as the Santa Clara Valley Water District. More recently, he served as the Director of Local Government Affairs for Stanford University, where he worked to build relationships and advocate for the university's interests in the community.

In January 2023, Domingo was appointed to serve on the San José City Council, representing Council District 8 which encapsulates Evergreen and a good portion of Southeast San José. In this role, he works to improve the quality of life for his constituents and advocates for their needs at the city level. 

Domingo is also an elected delegate to the California Democratic Party and has been involved in various trail advocacy boards such as Save Our Trails and Friends of Five Wounds Trail. Domingo enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and staying active by working out and officiating collegiate basketball. 

As a City Councilmember, he is committed to providing the highest quality of public service possible. He wants to do everything he can to improve our community.  His job is simple: respond to your questions and concerns; make intelligent and fair decisions; and put the public’s interest first.