Nellie Pou, a seasoned advocate and current New Jersey Senator, has officially announced her candidacy for the 9th Congressional District, vacated by the passing of her longtime friend and mentor Bill Pascrell, Jr. With over 25 years of dedicated service to the people of her district in Passaic and Bergen counties, Pou stands as a strong contender, uniquely positioned to represent the diverse constituency of the Congressional district which covers Passaic and Bergen counties and parts of Hudson County. This would be the second time Pou succeeds Pascrell, after taking over his Assembly seat when he was first elected to Congress.

Pou is the only Hispanic candidate in a congressional district where 42% of the population identifies as Hispanic, 38% as White, and 8% as Black. Her election would mark a historic milestone as the first Latina to represent New Jersey in the U.S. Congress. This groundbreaking achievement would not only celebrate the rich diversity of the state but also bring a crucial perspective to national policymaking.

Pou achieved nationwide prominence as President of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) from 2022-23. She led a delegation of Hispanic elected officials from 10 states and Puerto Rico to meet with Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House in March 2022 to discuss legislative priorities for Hispanics in New Jersey and across the United States. Senator Pou also hosted Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi at an NHCSL policy meeting in San Francisco in July 2023.

Throughout her tenure in the New Jersey General Assembly and State Senate, Pou has been a steadfast advocate for social and criminal justice reform, as well as human and civil rights. As the Chair of the New Jersey Senate Commerce Committee and Vice Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, she has gained a deep understanding of the economic and legal challenges facing the district. Her leadership roles as Chairwoman of the New Jersey Legislative Latino Caucus and within the NHCSL have further honed her ability to champion the needs of diverse communities and promote inclusive policies.

“I want to continue Bill Pascrell’s great work for New Jersey while also adding my voice as a Latina to the diversity that makes New Jersey and America strong. I have the legislative and national experience to hit the ground running in Congress, helping ensure that our communities’ priorities and diverse experiences have a powerful voice in the House. I have known Vice President Harris for several years and want to help her historic presidency lower the cost of housing, and increase economic opportunity and access to quality healthcare,” Pou said, adding that her team at NHCSL was essential in helping Vice President Harris lead a coalition of women state legislators to fight for reproductive healthcare after the Dobbs decision in the Summer of 2022.

In addition to her legislative work, Pou has been instrumental in fostering economic growth across the region. She has championed initiatives that support local businesses, creating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive, leading to job creation and economic stability. Her commitment to economic independence has ensured that businesses of all sizes have the tools they need to succeed.

Education and healthcare have also been central to Pou’s mission. She has spearheaded reforms aimed at making education accessible and affordable from early childhood through higher education. Her work in healthcare has focused on ensuring that quality care is available to all, enhancing the well-being of residents and laying the foundation for a healthier future.

Another cornerstone of her work has been expanding voter participation. Pou has been a vocal advocate for reforms that make it easier for every eligible citizen to exercise their right to vote, thereby strengthening democracy and ensuring that every voice is heard.

With her experience and dedication, Pou is poised to bring invaluable insight and commitment to the 9th Congressional District. Her leadership promises to inspire future generations and strengthen the fabric of our democracy.

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