

Rep. Nellie Pou was first elected to Congress in 2024. She was selected to replace the late Representative Bill Pascrell on the ballot after he passed away in August 2024. Prior to serving in Congress, she served in the New Jersey State Senate from 2012 to 2025 and the New Jersey General Assembly from 1997 to 2012. She became New Jersey Senate Majority Caucus Chair in 2022 and served as the President of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators. In the state legislature, she focused on human rights issues, including combating human trafficking, supporting undocumented students, and reforming the juvenile justice system. She has also championed healthcare access, affordable housing, and employment opportunities. Rep. Pou has a strong history of standing with Israel and with the Jewish community. Rep. Pou is the first Latina congresswoman in New Jersey history. Rep. Pou sits on the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. JDCA endorsed Rep. Pou in 2024.