NEW JERSEY LCV ANNOUNCES ENDORSEMENTS FOR MAY NONPARTISAN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

TRENTON, NJ – In communities across New Jersey, voters will head to the polls in May to choose the local leaders who make critical decisions about flooding, drinking water, parks, development, and public health. Today, New Jersey LCV, the statewide political voice for the environment, announced its slate of endorsed candidates for the upcoming nonpartisan municipal elections on May 12, 2026: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh.

Since expanding its endorsement program to local races in 2020, New Jersey LCV has supported nearly 400 municipal and county candidates who understand that environmental leadership starts close to home.

“While Washington attacks environmental protections and puts polluters first, local leaders in New Jersey have the power to protect our communities where it matters most,” said Allison McLeod, Interim Executive Director, New Jersey LCV. “The decisions made at town halls and city councils shape whether families have safe drinking water, whether neighborhoods are prepared for flooding, and whether parks and open spaces are preserved. Local decisions - and local  leaders - have a direct impact on our environment and our communities, and that’s why it is critical that voters are informed and engaged.”

Endorsed Candidates:

Essex County
Mayor Ras J. Baraka

City of Newark

“Throughout my career as Mayor of Newark, I have championed environmentally responsible policies that promote public health, equity, and sustainability. The endorsement of New Jersey LCV underscores our shared commitment to addressing the climate challenges facing our communities, especially New Jersey’s urban centers. I look forward to what this endorsement means and to working together to advance smart, forward-thinking solutions that protect our environment and ensure that every resident has the opportunity to live in a healthier and vibrant city.”

Passaic County

Mayor Andre Sayegh

City of Paterson

“I'm honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Paterson is the only home I have ever known, and throughout my time in public office, I have worked to make our city cleaner, greener, and more sustainable for every resident. New Jersey LCV shares those values, and their support is incredibly meaningful to me personally, and to our community. I look forward to continuing to work with New Jersey LCV and other partners to protect Paterson in my next term as Mayor, and for future generations to come.”

“These races may be local, but their impact is enormous,” McLeod added. “Too often, nonpartisan local elections see low turnout. But when voters show up, they can help elect leaders who will stand up for cleaner air, healthier neighborhoods, and a stronger future for every resident.”

New Jersey LCV is a nonpartisan organization whose mission is to elect environmental champions and hold elected officials accountable. It is the only New Jersey-based environmental organization with both a Political Action Committee (PAC) and Super PAC.