Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-15) today formally launched her candidacy for Congress in the 12th District.

In her statement, Reynolds Jackson emphasized her commitment to continued progress:

“Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman has been a guiding light for our state and our nation. As she begins a well-earned new chapter, we must carry forward the torch she lit — a torch that shines for working families, for our seniors, for our youth, and for all who believe in equity and hope. 

“I am running for Congress to continue that mission — to tackle affordability, protect our rights, and ensure that every child, every family, and every community has a fair shot at success. This moment calls for steady leadership to keep New Jersey families at the center of national policy.

“With what we’re seeing in Washington right now, we need more people to stand guard against Trump’s misguided policies and discourse threatening American families, their healthcare, and essential services they depend on daily. We must protect the affordable healthcare that over 45 million Americans use to take care of themselves and their loved ones. We must make sure parents can put food on the table for their children without worrying about how high the prices of eggs, milk, and pasta are. A grocery store trip should not be scary. 

“The constituents in District 12 deserve to be represented with the same level of resilient leadership and compassion they are accustomed to in Bonnie. I was raised here. I’ve built my professional career here in both social work and public policy. I have represented my district for four terms and would take the opportunity to continue to serve them in Washington.

“From the community to the capital, and now, from the capital to Congress — I’m ready to make sure that every voice is heard and every person is valued. I’m proud of the work I’ve done in New Jersey — and I will take that same energy and integrity to Washington.”

Reynolds-Jackson is currently serving in her fourth term in the Assembly, representing the 15^th Legislative District. She is the co-chair of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools, vice-chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee and co-vice-chair of the Select Committee on Ballot Design. She is also a member of the Assembly Budget Committee, the Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee, and the Joint Committee on Economic Justice and Equal Employment Opportunity.

Prior to being elected to the Assembly, Reynolds-Jackson served on the Trenton City Council from 2010-2018, including four years as vice president.