Mamta Singh Makes History as First Indian American Elected to Jersey City Council

Washington, Dec 2025 : In a landmark moment for one of the largest Indian American population centres in the United States, Mamta Singh has created history by winning a Council At-Large seat in Jersey City, becoming the first Indian American ever elected to public office in the city’s history.

Her victory came on a night of sweeping political change, with reform-backed candidate James Solomon securing a decisive win in the mayoral runoff. While the mayoral contest dominated headlines, Singh’s electoral breakthrough emerged as a defining milestone for the Indian American diaspora.

Jersey City, often referred to as “Little India” due to its vibrant Indian commercial and cultural hub around India Square, is home to tens of thousands of Indian Americans spread across neighbourhoods such as Journal Square and Exchange Place. Despite the community’s strong economic, cultural and social presence, it had never before seen direct representation at City Hall. Singh’s election closes that historic gap and marks a powerful moment of visibility and political inclusion.

Singh contested the election as part of Solomon’s “Team Solomon” slate, alongside Rolando Lavarro and Michael Griffin. Her campaign focused on stabilising property taxes, expanding youth recreation programmes, and strengthening services for working families. However, it was her deep roots in community advocacy that resonated most strongly with voters.

A nonprofit leader and grassroots organiser, Singh is the founder of JCFamilies, one of Jersey City’s most active civic organisations supporting women, children and working parents. She also established “Indians In Jersey City,” a platform dedicated to helping immigrant families, preserving Indian culture, and fostering community engagement through festivals and public forums.

Over the years, Singh emerged as a trusted bridge between newly arrived immigrants and long-time residents, helping families navigate schools, social services and city systems. Her election now brings that lived community experience directly into local governance.

Singh’s historic win, alongside Solomon’s victory over former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey, signals a broader shift toward community-driven leadership in Jersey City’s political landscape.

Team Maverick.