Ranked-choice voting advocate Veronica Akaezuwa will run with Jersey City Ward E Councilman James Solomon for the Ward D council seat, they both announced this afternoon.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Together, we can build a Jersey City where growth and affordability are a reality, not a dream. We need development that works for us, by prioritizing long-term housing affordability and availability for everyone. Better public schools are essential so that families raising their kids here know they are getting the best possible education,” Akaezuwa said in a statement.
“We must also improve quality of life in the Heights with more reliable public services like trash cleanup, and by addressing critical gaps in transportation and utility systems. We can create a community that thrives on affordable living, equitable education, and access to quality public services.”
Akaezuwa has become known for her expertise in policy development, government innovation, and implementing data-driven solutions.
At NJ Appleseed, she serves as the policy and advocacy director, leading statewide efforts through Voter Choice NJ (VCNJ) to reform New Jersey’s voting system.
Her leadership, along with the efforts of VCNJ, community activists, and partner organizations, has secured backing from numerous town councils for a more fair and inclusive electoral process.
Furthermore, Akaezuwa’s efforts in Jersey City include organizing a grassroots campaign that resulted in the city council adopting a ranked-choice voting trigger ordinance in April, where Solomon was one of the primary sponsors.
“I am proud to support Veronica Akaezuwa for the Jersey City Council and honored that she will join our slate. Her dedication to making affordable living a priority and her commitment to improving our schools and lowering the cost of living will help Jersey City grow and prosper,” Solomon exclaimed.
“Together, we can ensure there is more affordable housing, better schools and better trash cleanup. Veronica’s vision for Ward D promises a brighter future for residents and families in the Heights and together we will bring real change to Jersey City.”
The Ward D field for the non-partisan November 4th municipal elections is already the most crowded by a long shot.
Incumbent Yousef Saleh has announced he will seek re-election, with Elvin Dominici running with Hudson County Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2), while Jake Ephros and Patrick Ambrossi are running independently.
Solomon’s slate also includes Mamta Singh and Michael Griffin at-large, Eleana Little in Ward E, and Lorena Loayza in Ward B.
The other mayoral hopefuls that have thrown their hat in the ring are former Gov. Jim McGreevey, Council President Joyce Watterman, and ex-Board of Education President Mussab Ali.
