State Senator Nelida “Nellie” Pou just got a new title: US Representative-elect, beating out Republican challenger Billy Prempeh–although only just.
As of Tuesday night, according to unofficial results, Pou took 51.7% in Hudson County, lost Bergen with 47.0% to Prempeh’s 50.1%, and scraped out 52.0% in her home county of Passaic.
When US Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., passed away at the age of 87 in August of this year, the Democratic Party mourned one of their pugilistic champions—a political powerhouse out of Paterson, with a record of public service stretching back decades. He served in the US Army in the 1950s, became Mayor of Paterson, State Assemblyman, and later Congressman for CD-6 and then CD-9. Pascrell’s passing also left the Democrats with a serious problem: there was not much time for campaigning with half of summer already gone. Pou was acclaimed the nominee at a special convention held at Passaic County Technical Institute on August 29, dropping her into campaign season with only 9 weeks to rapidly expand her name recognition to the greater district and make her case to the voters. It would not be a cakewalk: Prempeh had the last five years to become a recognized name.
Prempeh, an ascendant 35-year-old Air Force veteran from Paterson, had faced Pascrell in 2022 and in 2020, building his base of support heavily in the district’s suburbs which turned out in strength. While he did not dislodge Pascrell in either race, both times he gained votes against the incumbent, representing a credible threat as seen by the razor-close margins in the 2024 general election.
Pou, 68, is a North Haledon resident, served as Pascrell’s successor in the State Assembly in 1997, becoming State Senator for LD-35 in 2012 with the departure of Hawthorne’s Senator John Girgenti. Pou will continue to follow in Pascrell’s footsteps, as it were, when she is sworn in in the US House of Representatives for the 9th District.
Passaic County Democratic Chairman John Currie had initially put forward Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter as a candidate to replace Pascrell, but an accord with Bergen Chairman Juliano and Hudson Chairman Guy put their support behind Pou. No one challenged her bid, doubtless to the relief of the party leaders.
Although she calls the Ruby Red North Haledon home, like Pascrell, Pou was born in Paterson and presently serves as the Chairwoman of the Senate Commerce Committee, the Vice-Chairwoman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Chairwoman of the New Jersey Legislative Latino Caucus. Of Puerto Rican heritage, Pou will make history when she takes her seat in the House as the first Latina to be part of New Jersey’s congressional delegation.
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In a historic turn of events, Pou has made history by winning the CD-9 seat in New Jersey. This victory marks a significant milestone for Pou, who has been a prominent figure in New Jersey politics for many years.
Pou’s win in the CD-9 seat is a testament to her dedication and hard work in serving the people of New Jersey. Throughout her career, Pou has been a strong advocate for issues such as healthcare, education, and economic development. Her commitment to improving the lives of New Jersey residents has earned her widespread support and admiration.
Pou’s victory in the CD-9 seat is also significant because it represents a shift in the political landscape of New Jersey. With her win, Pou has become the first woman to hold the CD-9 seat, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of women in politics.
In addition to her historic win, Pou’s victory in the CD-9 seat is also a testament to the power of grassroots organizing and community engagement. Pou’s campaign was fueled by the support of volunteers, activists, and everyday citizens who believe in her vision for a better New Jersey.
As Pou prepares to take office in the CD-9 seat, she will undoubtedly continue to be a strong voice for the people of New Jersey. Her win is not just a victory for her, but for all those who believe in the power of democracy and the ability of individuals to make a difference in their communities.
Overall, Pou’s win in the CD-9 seat is a momentous occasion that will go down in history as a turning point in New Jersey politics. Her victory serves as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving others, anything is possible. Congratulations to Pou on this historic win!
