Councilman James Solomon Endorses Brennan and Bhalla in Historic Primary: “Proven Leaders Who Will Shake Up Trenton”

Mayoral candidate and leading progressive voice will mobilize volunteers to knock doors in massive organizing push

Jersey City – Today, Jersey City Councilman James Solomon announced his enthusiastic support of housing expert Katie Brennan and Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla for State Assembly, citing their records of public service and commitment to running on their own terms.

“I couldn’t be more excited to throw my full support behind Katie Brennan and Ravi Bhalla for State Assembly,” said Ward E Councilman James Solomon. “Katie and Ravi are proven leaders who will shake up Trenton. They’re running to serve the people, not the party bosses.”

Solomon, the popular downtown Jersey City councilman, is leading a people-powered campaign for Mayor this November with a slate of independent council candidates. He pledged to mobilize his campaign volunteers to knock doors across the 32nd legislative district to get-out-the-vote in the historic June primary, the first state-level election without the “county line” on the ballot.

“This is a historic moment for New Jersey,” said Solomon. “For the first time in our lifetimes, the voters will get to decide who represents them in the state house, so we’re taking our message straight to the people: If you want more affordable housing, better transit, and a government that works for you, vote Brennan and Bhalla on June 10.”

Solomon spoke about his personal experience working with Brennan on housing issues in Jersey City.

“I’ve worked with Katie for years, so I’ve seen up close how she’s already improved housing policy without even holding elected office,” said Solomon. “When the council needed guidance on strengthening our inclusionary zoning law, Katie was there with real solutions. What’s even more impressive is that my colleagues at City Hall regularly turn to Katie when someone reaches out with a housing crisis — not because it’s her job, but because she’s the go-to expert who gets results. Katie doesn’t just talk about affordable housing, she rolls up her sleeves and does the hard work to make it happen.”

On Mayor Bhalla, Solomon highlighted his record of independence and accomplishments in Hoboken.

“If you want to see what strong, independent leadership looks like, just look at what Ravi Bhalla has done in Hoboken,” said Solomon. “Under his watch, Hoboken has become a model for safe streets and climate resiliency. That’s because Ravi leads with values, brings people together, and he doesn’t shy away from tough fights. He’s shown that when you put people ahead of politics, you can get amazing things done. Ravi is exactly the type of leader you want in your corner, and he’ll do a great job fighting for us in the Assembly.”

Both candidates welcomed Solomon’s support and praised his leadership, highlighting the importance of having strong independent voices in state and local government.

“James has been on the front lines fighting for renters and more affordable housing in Jersey City. I’m honored to have his support,” said Brennan. “We share the same vision for a government that works for everyday people, and we’re going to fight like hell to make it happen.”

“This endorsement means a lot. James is principled, he takes governing seriously, and he delivers for the people,” said Bhalla. “He also has vision. James knows that we’re building something bigger than a campaign here. We’re changing how politics are done in New Jersey. This is about making government answer to all of us and not just the insiders.”

The 32nd legislative district includes most of Jersey City and all of Hoboken. The Democratic primary will be held on June 10, 2025.

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About Katie Brennan

Katie Brennan is a long-time Jersey City resident, community advocate, and nationally recognized affordable housing expert. She has worked in leadership roles at state and local housing agencies in New Jersey and New York, helped secure historic funding for affordable housing in New Jersey, and has successfully advocated for stronger protections for tenants and survivors of sexual assault.

About Ravi Bhalla

Ravi Bhalla has served as Mayor of Hoboken since 2017, following his tenure on the Hoboken City Council from 2009 to 2017. A nationally recognized civil rights attorney, he has led Hoboken to become a leader in pedestrian safety, climate resilience, and inclusive governance. Under his leadership, Hoboken has implemented innovative solutions to flooding, expanded EV charging infrastructure, and maintained perfect scores on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index.

About James Solomon

James Solomon was first elected to the Jersey City Council in an upset win against the political machine in 2017. On the Council, James has been committed to making Jersey City a place that supports ALL our families, not just the well-connected. James’s vision for Jersey City includes affordable housing and good public schools, stable property taxes, ending sweetheart deals for developers, and streets and sidewalks clear of trash.