The newly retired congresswoman, now 78, first got her start as chief of staff for US Representative Ron Dellums, who later served as Oakland mayor from 2007-2011.
Jenkins takes over for Nikki Fortunato Bas, who was council president and thus interim mayor — after Sheng Thao lost a recall election and left office Dec. 17.
Vying for the seat, Renia Webb joins candidates Loren Taylor, Tyron Jordan, Mindy Pechenuk, Fabian Robinson, Elizabeth Swaney and Larry Lionel Young Jr.