JERSEY CITY, N.J. (Diya TV) — Jersey City voters made history by electing James Solomon as mayor and Mamta Singh as a City Council At-Large member. Solomon’s decisive win signals a shift toward reform-driven leadership, while Singh becomes the first Indian American elected to public office in the city’s history.
Running on Solomon’s “Team Solomon” ticket alongside Rolando Lavarro and Michael Griffin, Singh campaigned on stabilizing property taxes, expanding youth recreation, and strengthening services for working families. But her influence reaches beyond policy.
A longtime nonprofit leader, Singh founded JCFamilies, a grassroots organization advocating for women, children, and working parents. She also established Indians in Jersey City, supporting immigrant families while celebrating Indian culture. Through her work, Singh has become a trusted figure across the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Solomon, 41, defeated former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey with about 69 percent of the vote. Known as a progressive reformer, Solomon campaigned on affordability and resisting the influence of large developers.
“Tonight is a win for Jersey City against the corrupt political machine,” Solomon said. He promised a city government focused on residents rather than special interests. He pledged to build “a more affordable Jersey City, where everyone has a chance to thrive.”
McGreevey’s attempt at a political comeback, supported by establishment donors, was hindered by controversies from his time as governor. Despite recent praise for helping formerly incarcerated individuals, voters were not ready to give him a second term.
Jersey City is home to one of the nation’s largest Indian American communities. Areas like Journal Square, Exchange Place, and the “Little India” around India Square have long served as hubs of culture and commerce. Yet until Singh’s election, no member of this community had held elected office.
Singh’s campaign emphasized local priorities while maintaining a strong connection to her community roots. She is recognized for helping newcomers navigate schools, city services, and local life. Her victory reflects the growing political power of the city’s Indian American residents.
