Letter of Intent for the Democratic Nomination of Passaic County Commissioner

Dear Municipal Chairpeople,

I was born in Paterson and raised between Clifton and Little Falls, and Passaic County has
been the constant through every stage of my life. It is where my family built its roots and where I
first learned the importance of public institutions, local leadership, and community responsibility.
With that perspective, I write to formally express my intent to seek the Democratic nomination
for Passaic County Commissioner and to respectfully request your consideration through the
screening process.

Passaic County is a place of remarkable diversity, resilience, and potential. At the same time,
many of our residents continue to face shared challenges that require thoughtful, coordinated
leadership at the county level. Rising housing costs, limited transportation access,
environmental concerns, and uneven economic opportunity affect families across municipalities
and demand solutions that are practical, collaborative, and grounded in good governance.

My decision to seek this office is rooted in a belief that county government plays a critical role in
addressing these challenges responsibly and effectively. Housing stability, transportation
connectivity, environmental resilience, and economic development are not isolated issues; they
are interconnected priorities that require planning, fiscal discipline, and strong partnerships with
municipalities, labor, and community stakeholders. I believe the County can and should serve as
a reliable convener and problem-solver in these areas.

I have spent much of my professional and civic life working within county government, political
campaigns, and civic organizations, gaining firsthand experience with how policy is developed,
implemented, and evaluated. These roles have reinforced the importance of transparency,
sound fiscal stewardship, and intergovernmental coordination in delivering results that residents
can trust.

In addition, my work as a Senior Advisor with CAIR Action and CAIR Action New Jersey has
provided me with valuable experience engaging across diverse communities and institutions. In
that role, I have focused on civic participation, coalition coordination, and governance readiness,
while consistently prioritizing constructive engagement and accountability. This experience has

further strengthened my commitment to leadership that builds consensus and advances the
public good.

I also believe that effective governance is strengthened when leadership reflects both the
diversity and the generational realities of the communities it serves. My nomination, and
potential placement on the Board of County Commissioners, would reflect the growing need for
younger leaders in government who bring lived experience, institutional knowledge, and a
long-term commitment to public service. It would also represent meaningful inclusion for
communities that have historically been underrepresented in county leadership, including the
Muslim and Arab communities. If elected, I would be the first Arab County Commissioner in the
State of New Jersey, a responsibility I would approach with humility, seriousness, and a deep
respect for the office.

I am seeking to serve as County Commissioner because I believe Passaic County benefits from
leaders who are prepared to govern thoughtfully, listen carefully, and work collaboratively. If
entrusted with this responsibility, I would approach the role with professionalism, discipline, and
a clear focus on improving affordability, livability, and opportunity for all county residents.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate the work of the screening committee
and welcome the opportunity to further discuss my candidacy and vision for service to Passaic
County.

Sincerely,
Ali H. Aljarrah