FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 27, 2026

Elizabeth Councilwoman Patricia Perkins-Auguste Announces Candidacy for Union County Clerk

ELIZABETH, NJ — Elizabeth City Councilwoman Patricia Perkins-Auguste today announced her candidacy for Union County Clerk, seeking to fill the vacancy created by the recent passing of longtime Clerk Joanne Rajoppi.

Perkins-Auguste, a lifelong Elizabeth resident and At Large member of the Elizabeth City Council since 1993, brings more than three decades of public service experience to the race. She currently serves in her seventh consecutive term as the only woman on the nine-member City Council.

“I am deeply honored to offer my experience and commitment to the people of Union County as a candidate for County Clerk,” said Perkins-Auguste. “Joanne Rajoppi set a high standard of integrity, accessibility, and innovation. If selected, I will work every day to continue that legacy while advancing modern, equitable, and resident-centered services. I will be the first person of color to serve in the capacity as Union County Clerk, and I am prepared to honor that responsibility with competence and dedication.”

Perkins-Auguste’s public service record includes:

Interim Business Administrator for the City of Perth Amboy during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic

Successful grant acquisition supporting youth programs, small business development, workforce training, second-chance initiatives, autism family supports, and homelessness prevention

Delegate for President Barack Obama’s second nomination at the 2012 Democratic National Convention

Founding member of the National Council of Negro Women Greater Elizabeth Area Section, former NAACP Branch President, and Emeritus Board Member of the United Way of Greater Union County

If elected, Perkins-Auguste plans to prioritize modernization and expanded online access to vital records and election information, strengthened community outreach with multilingual resources, streamlined support for local businesses, and the highest standards of accuracy, impartiality, and customer service in the Clerk’s Office.

Perkins-Auguste has formally submitted her qualifications and statement of interest to the Union County Democratic Committee.