Today, the New Jersey Working Families Party (NJWFP) announced its endorsement of Chigozie Onyema for the New Jersey General Assembly in District 28, citing his strong commitment to economic justice, workers’ rights, climate justice, and building a multiracial democracy.

An attorney and co-chair of the Newark West Ward Democratic Committee, Onyema has demonstrated strong support for the NJWFP legislative agenda, including raising the minimum wage, expanding collective bargaining rights for workers, strengthening tenant protections, and transitioning to 100% clean energy.

“We need someone like Chigozie fighting for working people in Trenton,” said Antoinette Miles, State Director of the New Jersey Working Families Party. “There’s a reason he’s our first legislative endorsement this cycle. As an attorney, community organizer, and activist, Chigozie has a record of bringing people together to make positive change. He gets what families are going through right now with rising costs and stagnant wages, he knows what policies to fight for, and he knows how to win.”

The endorsement was voted on by members of the New Jersey Working Families Party State Committee, which includes leaders from labor unions, advocacy organizations, and grassroots community groups from across the state.

NJWFP’s endorsement for one of two seats in District 28 comes with grassroots organizing support, paid media, and mobilizing volunteers.

“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey Working Families Party,” said Chigozie Onyema. “I’ve long considered myself a Working Families Democrat, and I’m ready to fight for a New Jersey that works for everyone. From affordable housing to health care access, labor rights to climate justice, I’ll be a tireless advocate for policies that put working families first.”

Born to working-class parents in Newark, Onyema is running in the Democratic primary for the 28th Legislative District, covering parts of Newark, South Orange, Maplewood, Irvington, and Hillside. The primary is June 10, 2025.

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The New Jersey Working Families Party is a grassroots independent political organization fighting for a government that represents the needs and values of working families.