Politics
Hudson County Commissioner 2026: Your Guide to the District 9 Primary Candidates
Hudson County Commissioner 2026: Your Complete Guide to the Candidates in Harrison, Kearny, Secaucus, East Newark, and Jersey City
A fact-based guide to the candidates and deadlines for the Hudson County Commissioner District 9 Democratic primary election on June 2, 2026.
Election Timeline
- Voter Registration: May 12
- Early Voting Begins: May 26
- Primary Election: June 2
Slogan: Democrat Leader Who Cares
Mina Ekladious
“Hudson County families deserve a government that respects every taxpayer dollar. I will work to control costs, cut waste, and make smart investments.”
Background: Law enforcement officer with the Kearny Police Department and President of the Kearny PBA. Immigrated to Kearny at age two.
Priorities: Focused on traffic safety, expanding parking capacity (exploring Norfolk Southern site), and flood mitigation for roads like Harrison and Passaic Avenues.
Slogan: Hudson County Democratic Organization
Alex Valdez
“Protect homeowners by demanding responsible county budgeting and advocate for increased state and federal funding to expand affordable housing options.”
Background: Kearny native and nonprofit leader. Former Sergeant in the NJ Army National Guard with an MPA from Rutgers-Newark.
Priorities: Adopting a Climate Action Plan, improving stormwater management, and implementing budget transparency data on the county website.
Slogan: Hudson County Democrat for the People
Larry Bennett
“Our communities deserve strong representation and a voice that understands their needs. I will bring the same commitment demonstrated throughout my life.”
Background: Harrison’s Third Ward Councilman since 2007. Retired Supervisor from the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission with 33 years of experience.
Priorities: Focused on county infrastructure oversight, protecting ratepayer interests, and hands-on constituent service for Harrison, East Newark, and Kearny.
Primary Election FAQ
How Do I Register To Vote?
Visit the NJ Online Voter Registration Portal to register or check your status. The online registration deadline is 21 days before Election Day. The voter registration deadline for this election is Tuesday, May 12, 2026.
On May 12, mandated evening voter registration will be available at the offices of the County Commissioners of Registration.
Can I Vote In-Person?
Yes. You can vote in-person on Primary Election Day, Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Polls are open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Early Voting: Early voting runs from Tuesday, May 26th through Sunday, May 31st.
How Can I Apply to Vote By Mail?
Any voter may apply for vote-by-mail by completing an application or visiting the Online Vote-By-Mail Request Portal at hudsoncountyclerk.org.
Important Deadlines:
- By Mail: Applications must be received by the County Clerk Office Division of Elections no less than seven (7) days before the election (May 26).
- In-Person: Applications may be submitted in-person to the Hudson County Clerk Division of Elections by 3:00 PM the day before Election Day (June 1).
What If I Haven’t Received My Mail-In Ballot?
Mailing of Mail-In Ballots commences 45 days before the election. Please provide adequate time for the United States Postal Service to process the ballot and deliver it to your home.
If you requested a Vote-By-Mail Ballot and have not received it three (3) weeks before the election, you can use the “Track Your Mail-In Ballot” tool at hudsoncountyclerk.org. You may also contact the County Clerk’s Division of Elections at (201) 369-3470 (OPTION #6) to check your mailing status or to request an English or Spanish Affidavit for a replacement.
Military and Overseas Voting
Where Can I Get Additional Information or Help?
For official election night reporting results, the 2026 Election Portal, directions on How to Use Voting Machines on Election Day, and historical sample ballots, visit the Hudson County Clerk’s website at hudsoncountyclerk.org.
For additional voter resources, polling locations, and general guidelines, visit vote.hcnj.us or hcnj.us/county-elections.
