1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East — the nation’s largest healthcare union — just endorsed Jake Ephros for Jersey City’s Ward D council seat. This move highlights the union’s ongoing fight for working people and Ephros’ track record on labor rights.
For voters in the Heights and nearby neighborhoods, the union’s support feels like a vote of confidence in Ephros’ ability to tackle rising living costs and inequality in the city.
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Jake Ephros: From Labor Organizer to Educator
Jake Ephros started out as a labor organizer, working directly with 1199SEIU members. He’s spent time alongside nurses and nursing home staff, pushing for better wages, safer staffing, and stronger workplace protections.
He even went up against New Jersey’s largest private employer, which he remembers as a crash course in the power of collective action. That kind of experience sticks with you.
A Deeply Personal Endorsement
Ephros says the 1199SEIU endorsement means a lot to him personally. His background with the union ties him to the caregivers who do essential work in the Heights and throughout Jersey City.
There’s a sense of shared values here — fairness, equity, and a real commitment to defending workers’ rights. That connection isn’t just political; it feels genuine.
Why the Union’s Support Matters
1199SEIU’s backing isn’t just about politics. It’s a statement about how important workers’ voices are when it comes to city policies.
Executive Vice President Andy Cassagnol called Ephros a “tenacious leader” who brings marginalized voices into the conversation. He’s not wrong — the economic challenges in Jersey City aren’t going away anytime soon.
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Challenges Facing Ward D
The Heights, or Ward D, is a lively part of Jersey City, but it’s dealing with its share of economic stress. Rents keep climbing, living costs rise, and affordable healthcare feels out of reach for many.
If you’re looking for a candidate who’s ready to take on these problems, someone with a labor advocacy background like Ephros might stand out.
The Political Landscape
Ephros is jumping into a crowded race. His opponents — Elvin Dominici Encarnación, Catherine Healy, Patrick Ambrossi, and Veronica Akaezuwa — all have backing from local political heavyweights.
With so many candidates in the mix, endorsements from big organizations like 1199SEIU can really boost a campaign’s visibility and credibility.
A Commitment to Organizing Spirit
Ephros says he’ll bring the same energy from his organizing days to the City Council. He wants to focus on what the community actually needs, push for fair labor practices, and look for policy ideas that balance economic growth with real opportunity.
His campaign feels like a continuation of the activism he’s already known for.
Impact Beyond Politics
The council race might be local, but the issues go way beyond Ward D. Affordable healthcare, frontline worker protections, and rising housing costs are problems all over Jersey City.
Anyone deciding where to stay in Jersey City — for a weekend or for years — will run into policies shaped by leaders like those in Ward D.
Connecting to the Community
Jersey City’s vibe as a dynamic, diverse place has a lot to do with how it treats its people — from nurses in scrubs to entrepreneurs chasing new ideas.
Whether you’re checking out things to do in Jersey City or figuring out how to get to Jersey City, the way the city’s governed shapes your experience. That’s just the reality.
Looking Ahead
1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East just endorsed Jake Ephros, and that puts him firmly on the radar in the Ward D council race. He brings a solid labor background and has spent years in grassroots organizing.
He’s also made it clear that he’s committed to equitable policies. Ephros’ campaign shines a light on how advocacy shapes city leadership.
For folks living here—and even those just passing through—the outcome could nudge Jersey City’s direction. Neighborhood investments, workforce protections, maybe even the vibe of your favorite block, could all shift depending on what happens next.
Let’s be honest, the city feels most alive when every community and worker gets a fair shot. Whether you’re a visitor checking into Jersey City hotels or a lifelong local, thoughtful, people-first leadership really does make a difference.
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Here is the source article for this story: 1199SEIU healthcare union backs Ephros for Ward D Jersey City Council seat
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