The powerful building workers’ union, 32BJ SEIU, just threw its support behind Jake Ephros in the Ward D City Council race in Jersey City. This endorsement landed just weeks before a critical runoff election that’ll decide who represents the Heights neighborhood on the council.
The union’s choice comes from Ephros’s steady commitment to workers’ rights, housing affordability, and tenant protections. He’s built a reputation as a strong advocate for the city’s working class and renters.
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Union Endorsement Signals Strong Support for Workers’ Rights
32BJ SEIU stands as one of the region’s most influential labor unions, representing thousands of building service workers. Their support highlights the trust Ephros has earned as a real ally in the fight for economic justice.
Ana María Hill, Vice President and New Jersey State Director for 32BJ SEIU, praised Ephros’s history of backing labor causes and standing with working families. She didn’t mince words about his impact in the community.
Advocacy on the Ground
Hill pointed to Ephros’s visible role in protests against KRE and Ironstate buildings. He publicly demanded fair treatment of workers and better labor conditions.
Ephros’s activism isn’t just talk—he completed 32BJ’s organizer-in-training program. That experience put him right in the thick of campaigns to boost worker power across New Jersey.
Expanding His Experience Through Healthcare Organizing
Ephros also worked with 1199SEIU in the healthcare sector. That role gave him a front-row seat to critical policy discussions and helped him sharpen his organizing and outreach skills.
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His work in both sectors shows his commitment to protecting vulnerable workers and making sure policy decisions reflect what everyday residents actually need.
Pushing for Housing Affordability in Jersey City
As a housing advocate, Ephros played a key role in passing Jersey City’s “Right to Counsel” ordinance. Now, renters facing eviction can get legal representation—a protection that can change everything for low-income tenants.
Measures like this are a lifeline for residents struggling to stay in their homes as rents keep climbing.
The Road to the Runoff Election
Ephros ran as an independent and finished second in the November 4th general election for Ward D. Now, he faces Catherine Healy in the December 2nd runoff.
Healy aligns with mayoral candidate Jim McGreevey. Ephros, on the other hand, has the backing of Ward E Councilman James Solomon, who’s running against McGreevey in the mayoral runoff. That political split could shake up dynamics across several city districts.
What This Means for Jersey City Residents
The outcome here matters a lot for residents in Ward D and beyond. It could steer the direction of labor and housing policies for years to come.
Jersey City’s Vibrant Scene Beyond Politics
Politics aside, Jersey City’s got plenty going on. For anyone wondering where to stay in Jersey City, you’ll find everything from boutique Jersey City hotels to cozy guesthouses in the neighborhoods.
Once you’re settled, there’s no shortage of things to do in Jersey City. The waterfront views, the food scene, and the cultural festivals—honestly, it’s hard not to find something that’ll catch your interest.
Navigating and Exploring the City
Getting to Jersey City isn’t complicated, whether you’re here to back your candidate or just see what all the fuss is about. You can hop on the PATH train, catch a ferry, or just drive in—there are plenty of ways to arrive.
Each district has its own vibe. Downtown buzzes with activity, while the Powerhouse Arts District leans creative and a bit quirky. The Heights, where Ward D sits, brings a historic flavor and a close-knit feel.
Politics here don’t just happen in city hall—they spill out onto stoops and into coffee shops. Civic engagement feels personal, almost woven into the daily rhythm of life. Neighborhood pride? Yeah, it’s real.
With the Ward D runoff set for December 2nd, the city faces more than a routine election. It’s about what Jersey City stands for—labor rights, housing justice, and, honestly, the future people want to build here.
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Here is the source article for this story: 32BJ SEIU supporting Jake Ephros for Jersey City Ward D council seat
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