Essex County Young Democrats Announce New 2026 Executive Board Members & Appointed Leadership Team

Essex County, N.J. — The Essex County Young Democrats, a countywide organization dedicated to engaging young people ages 18–40 in local politics and civic life, is proud to announce its new 2026 Executive Board and 2026 Appointed Leadership Team, a diverse group of emerging leaders committed to advancing progressive values across Essex County. Through the Essex County Young Democrats, young leaders are organized into teams that expand civic engagement and increase youth participation.

“We’re at a critical moment in our country where young people need to recognize the power they hold. Voting is more than just casting a ballot,  it’s about using your voice to stand up, speak out, and drive change in response to what’s happening across the country,” said Jasmine Metellus, President of the Essex County Young Democrats.

“Young people deserve to have an active role in shaping the future of their communities. Too often, the perspectives of young adults are overlooked in conversations around housing, economic opportunity, and policies that directly shape our everyday lives. Our voices, experiences, and ideas deserve to be part of the conversations and decisions shaping the future of Essex County. I’m proud to help lead an organization committed to empowering young leaders and increasing civic engagement throughout our county.” said Tajalah Bell, Vice President of Essex County Young Democrats.

The 2026 Executive Board and Leadership Team comprises 22 individuals, reflecting the diversity and strength of Essex County’s young, progressive leadership pipeline. Members bring expertise from a broad array of fields, including education, environmental sustainability, health, law, marketing, nonprofit advocacy, government, and politics.

The Essex County Young Democrats Executive Board includes:

• President, Jasmine Metellus
• Vice President, Tajalah Bell
• Treasurer, Axel Esquivel
• Secretary, Brandon J. Mathieson
• Co-Sergeant-at-Arms, Philip J. Casey
• Co-Sergeant-at-Arms, David Daughety

The 2026 Appointed Leadership Team includes:

• Executive Assistant / Scheduler: Liselle Montrose
• Communications Directors: Mehr Chaudhary & Francesca Meyer
• Outreach & Membership Director:  Alexander Wolfe
• Events Directors: Justis Pitt-Goodson & Alexandria Butler
• Director of Volunteer Outreach: Theodore Dieujuste
• Fundraising Director: Abby Bermeo
• Legislative Director: Tahiri Alvarado
• Legislative Director:  Christian Almestica
• Political Director: Alexander Felix
• County Chapter Liaisons: Chantel Amissah & Kimberly Pierre
• High School Liaisons: Fawaz Agbaje & Dylan Stokes
• College Liaison: Madeline Rowe