Rudy Reyes (activist) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Rudy Reyes
Born	(1977-02-27) February 27, 1977 (age 47) Sacramento, California
Nationality	American
Alma mater	San Diego State University
Occupation	Science teacher, chef
Known for	... rights activism
Political party	Legal ... Now

Rudy Reyes (born February 27, 1977) is an American teacher, actor, archaeologist, ... rights activist, and chef. Reyes was a contestant in the reality television competition, MasterChef, on the show's fourth season.

Californian Reyes, known for his bravery during the Cedar Fire of 2003, volunteers as a mentor for young burn survivors, and spokesperson for United Way and the Burn Institute.

Cedar Fire survivor

Heroism during 2003 wildfire

A resident of San Diego County, California, Reyes became known for his role in the Cedar Fire of 2003. During the fire, he helped others get to safety first, before he was trapped by the fire. Reyes soaked himself in the shower, and ran more than a mile through the fire. He sustained burns over approximately 70 percent of his body, and lost one ear and part of a finger.

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Early activism

In the June 3, 2008, election, Reyes ran against Dianne Jacob, who had been his representative on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, and lost, though receiving more than 20,000 votes, about 22 percent.

2010s career

2010—2012 candidacies

Reyes ran for Santee, California, City Council in 2010, San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 2012, and for Santee Mayor, against 12-year incumbent Randy Voepel, in 2012.

Quail Brush power plant critic

In 2012, archeologist Reyes testified against the Quail Brush power plant proposed in San Diego, near Santee, which was opposed by the Santee City Council.

2013 MasterChef contestant

Reyes appeared as a contestant in the reality television competition, MasterChef, on the premiere episode of the show's fourth season.

2016 San Diego County Board of Supervisors candidate

Reyes ran for San Diego County Board of Supervisors, District 2, in 2016 and lost. The only Democratic candidate to face Republican incumbent Jacob, Reyes campaigned for increased fire protections. In the June 7 primary, Reyes received more than 38,000 votes, almost 27 percent.

2018 Santee City Council candidate

In 2018, Reyes ran unsuccessfully for District 2 Santee City Council. He was endorsed by the San Diego Democratic Party. Reyes received 1,510 votes, more than 31 percent, in the November 6 general election.

2020s activism

Vice-presidential campaign

..... But due to 2020 Iowa COVID-19 petitioning obstacles, the campaign was postponed until 2024.

Personal life

Early life and education

Rudy Reyes, who belongs to the Barona Band of Mission Indians, graduated from El Capitan High School in Lakeside, California. He holds degrees in archeology and anthropology from San Diego State University, and a degree from California Western School of Law.

Political candidacy

Rudy Reyes has run for public office several times, including:

• San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 2008, 2012, and 2016
• Santee, California, City Council in 2008, 2010, and 2018
• Santee Mayor, in 2012

Television and film

Rudy Reyes, who had a role as himself in the 2010 documentary film How Weed Won the West, was a contestant in the television competition, MasterChef, on the first episode in Season 4 of the American reality show, in 2013.