Just three days following Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla’s announcement that he would not be seeking a third term as Mayor come the November election, Councilwoman At Large Emily Jabbour announced on social media on Monday that she is officially running to become the Mile Square City’s next Mayor. Jabbour is the first declared candidate in the race.
Jabbour has served on the Hoboken City Council since 2018, having won a second, four year term in 2021.
“I love this city and am so proud to call Hoboken home and raise our kids here with my husband, Peter. I’m excited to put my energy and experience to work, and today announce my campaign to be Hoboken’s next Mayor.
“As a mom, you better believe I’ve got a long to-do list with new ideas to continue improving our community and make Hoboken a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
“We’ve got more work to do for better schools, safer neighborhoods, improved constituent services, public transportation that works for all of us, and real transparency and accountability in how decisions get made and taxpayer money gets spent.
“I’m looking forward to meeting you in living rooms, coffee shops, and parks across our city in the weeks and months ahead. I hope you’ll join us and be part of our grassroots, community campaign.”
Jabbour has spent nearly two decades working for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in the Administration for Children and Families.
It is anticipated that several other Hoboken Council members will enter the race for Mayor, including former Assemblyman Ruben Ramos, the 4th Ward Councilman. 3rd Ward Councilman Michael Russo and 2nd Ward Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher.
Fisher distributed a newsletter on Monday in which she stated, “As many know—and as I’ve shared in prior newsletters—I am exploring running to be your mayor. What does this mean? It means I am speaking with neighbors about issues and assessing support, putting together a team of professionals, and talking with others who may want to run with me as At-Large City Council candidates. Feel free to reach out if you are interested. Running for office is a process and a partnership with the community—and I will not do this without your input and support.”
Mayor Bhalla is expected to run for a New Jersey Assembly seat in the 32nd Legislative district.