History of Dave Cortese in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 17, 2026

David Cortese is a California State Senator representing District 15. Before joining the Senate, Cortese spent 12 years on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors. His prior experience also includes eight years as a San Jose City Councilmember and Vice Mayor, as well as eight years as a trustee for the East Side Union High School District. Notably, he was a mayoral candidate for San Jose, winning the primary but losing the general election to Sam Liccardo.

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Full Timeline

1917: Establishment of Enterprises

In 1917, the ranching and real estate enterprises, for which Cortese later became general manager, were established in the Valley.

1949: Ed Donovan becomes Santa Clara City Councilman

In 1949, Ed Donovan, Dave Cortese's maternal grandfather, served as a Santa Clara City Councilman.

1950: Ed Donovan continues serving as Santa Clara City Councilman

In 1950, Ed Donovan, Dave Cortese's maternal grandfather, continued to serve as a Santa Clara City Councilman.

June 3, 1956: David Cortese Born

On June 3, 1956, David Dominic Cortese was born. He is now an elected official from San Jose, California.

1970: Attended Bellarmine College Preparatory

In 1970, David Cortese attended Bellarmine College Preparatory high school.

1974: Graduated Bellarmine College Preparatory

In 1974, David Cortese graduated from Bellarmine College Preparatory high school.

1986: Cortese Assumed Role as General Manager

In 1986, Cortese assumed the role of general manager for a collection of enterprises in ranching and real estate, after working as a professional financial manager.