Malinowski Campaign Builds Momentum in Essex County with Belleville and Nutley Endorsements

Millburn, NJ— Congressman Tom Malinowski today announced a slate of endorsements from local elected officials in Belleville and Nutley, two Essex County communities widely viewed as competitive terrain in the race for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. The endorsements signal growing momentum for Malinowski across the district as vote-by-mail ballots are in voters’ hands.

In Belleville, Malinowski earned the endorsement of Councilman Frank Vélez and Councilwoman Tracy Juanita Muldrow, along with Cristina Garro, Jean Rodríguez Gillis, and Lissa Missaggia — who were elected to the Belleville Board of Education on a platform of accountability, transparency, and putting students first.

In Nutley, Malinowski was endorsed by Nick Scotti, the youngest elected official in Township history, who serves on the Nutley Board of Education and represents a new generation of local leadership.

These endorsements follow Malinowski’s recent backing from South Orange Mayor Sheena Collum, who is hosting a community town hall with Malinowski this Saturday, January 10, demonstrating the breadth of support he is building across Essex County.

“Earning support in communities like Belleville and Nutley reflects the kind of coalition we’re building — one rooted in local leadership, inclusion, and shared values,” said Malinowski. “These leaders believe in representing every member of their communities and reject the kind of divisive politics that tear people down instead of bringing them together. As ballots are actively being cast, this support means a great deal to our campaign.”

Councilman Frank Vélez emphasized Malinowski’s record of leadership and courage, citing his willingness to stand up for democratic values and fight for working families.

“Tom Malinowski has shown he’s not afraid to show up and fight for our values when it matters most,” said Vélez. “He understands our community, and has shown that he knows how to work collaboratively with the local elected officials in his district to deliver for the communities they represent. I look forward to having him represent Essex County so we can secure the federal resources Belleville needs.”