Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla Seeking NJ Assembly Seat

HOBOKEN, NJ — A week after saying he won't run for a third term as Hoboken mayor, Democrat Ravi Bhalla said he will run for State Assembly in the 32nd District this year.

The district includes Hoboken and part of Jersey City.

Bhalla is looking to succeed former Chief of Staff John Allen who reportedly opted not to seek a new term after two years.

"As a two-term mayor, I believe Trenton needs more mayors who get things done. In the State Assembly, I will fight to ensure that New Jersey leads the way on curbing both traffic fatalities and climate change, and address the housing crisis that is squeezing so many residents in Jersey City, Hoboken and throughout the state," Bhalla said.

On Monday, Councilwoman Emily Jabbour, a Bhalla ally, became the first Hoboken council member to announce a run for mayor this year. Several others said they're considering a run.

Running on record

A press release noted that as of Wednesday, Hoboken has gone eight years without a traffic death.

"Mayor Bhalla would bring the same innovative leadership to the State Assembly that has earned Hoboken national recognition as a leader in pedestrian safety, climate change and standing up for our democratic, inclusive values," said the release. "Taking leadership on making Hoboken a safer place to walk, bike and drive, Mayor Bhalla launched and implemented its Vision Zero program. As a result, today, January 15th, marks the 8th year Hoboken has gone without a single pedestrian fatality in the city."

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg had lauded this initiative, and cities much bigger than Hoboken — which is about 20 blocks long — have discussed replicating the city's result.

READ MORE: Hoboken Councilwoman Jabbour Says She'll Run For Mayor