Newark Mayor Ras Baraka Endorses Brian Varela for Congress (NJ-7)

“In these uncertain times, New Jersey’s families are looking for a fighter, and Brian is a proven leader unafraid to step up, speak out, and pushback. Brian is committed to delivering real economic justice, stopping corporate greed, and standing up against the terror of Trump’s ICE agents, and that’s why he is the Democrat who can win in November.”

Morris County, NJ (February 2, 2026) – Today, as first reported by Politico, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a nationally recognized progressive leader and champion for economic, racial, and social justice, announced his endorsement of Brian Varela for Congress in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

“Brian Varela is a progressive champion who is fighting for working people, not corporations. He understands the struggles hardworking families across the state face because he has lived through them,” said Mayor Baraka. “In these uncertain times, New Jersey’s families are looking for a fighter, and Brian is a proven leader unafraid to step up, speak out, and push back. Brian is committed to delivering real economic justice, stopping corporate greed, and standing up against the terror of Trump’s ICE agents, and that’s why he is the Democrat who can win in November.”

Mayor Baraka earned over 170,000 votes in the 2025 New Jersey Democratic primary for Governor, finishing second in a high-powered field of six, including receiving over 15% of the vote in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. As Mayor, Baraka has reduced gun violence, expanded economic opportunity, built more affordable housing, and created a model for progressive mayors across the country.  

“I am incredibly honored to earn Mayor Baraka’s endorsement,” said Brian Varela. “He has spent his career standing up for working families, defending civil rights, and fighting for communities that have too often been left behind. His gubernatorial campaign set a new standard for progressive success in New Jersey, and I’m proud to have him on our team. Mayor Baraka represents the kind of leadership I will bring to Congress as I fight for universal healthcare as a human right, protect our immigrant friends and neighbors, and build an economy that actually works for everyone.”

Baraka joins Former Senate President Steve Sweeney as the second 2025 gubernatorial candidate to endorse Varela’s campaign. Together, Sweeney and Baraka combined for 28% of the vote in the primary. Baraka’s endorsement marks Varela’s 41st, including a wide range of national and New Jersey’s leaders in Varela’s coalition to flip this seat. 

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About Brian Varela

Brian Varela is a 37-year-old first-generation American, small business owner, and father running for Congress in NJ-07. Raised in New Jersey by immigrant parents, Brian put himself through college, helped raise his younger brother, and built one of the fastest-growing companies in America during the COVID crisis. Recognized by Inc. Magazine and NJ Business Magazine for leadership and innovation, Brian brings a real-world perspective to one of the most competitive House races in the nation. Visit www.varelaforcongress.com for more information and follow us on Threads, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X.