Rex Richardson has served as mayor of Long Beach for over three years, winning reelection in June 2026, securing his second term as mayor.
Richardson made history as the first Black mayor of Long Beach breaking barriers and taking on one of the most influential leadership roles in local government.
From launching youth-focused programs to spearheading major initiatives like Space Beach, and the Grow Long Beach economic development plan, Richardson has focused on expanding opportunity, innovation and investment in one of California’s most diverse cities.
Every year, the city of Long Beach Office of Youth Development and Richardson host Youth Day in the LBC, which is designed to empower, celebrate and connect local youth and young adults between the ages of 13 and 26.
Richardson talks with host, Tanya McRae, about the mission of the Youth Day initiative.
“We want to give our young people the best opportunities anywhere. We want kids growing up in Long Beach to know… I can build rockets, I can work in the Port, I can be Mayor. I can do all of these things, and the opportunities are right here in your backyard,” he said.
Send us your thoughts to InFocusSoCal@charter.com and watch at 11 a.m. on Saturdays and 9 a.m. on Sundays.