Trump & Black Jobs: The New Reality of African American Politics in Hudson Co.

In Hudson County, African American politicos enjoy reveling in the nostalgia regarding their impact on local politics.

In reality the power of the Black vote is delusional, once a formidable force, has significantly waned. Since 1990, Jersey City, the county’s largest hub of Black voters, has seen a steady decline in its African American population.

In a city with a population of 300,000, less than 20% of residents are Black, and fewer than half of those are registered voters. On election day, the turnout is a mere 5,000 Black voters (max).

Several factors contribute to this decline. Gentrification is often cited as a primary reason, driving many Black residents out of their communities. Additionally, the brief mayoral tenure of Glenn Cunningham is seen by some as the point when Black political engagement began to falter. Other ethnic groups have since surpassed African Americans in voter activism, diminishing the once crucial role of the Black vote in elections.

Today, the influence of the Black vote is almost mythical. Black candidates and elected officials haven’t come to terms with the fact that the heyday of their political clout has passed. For nearly a decade, Ward F in Jersey City, once a stronghold of Black voters, no longer holds that title.

In Hudson’s Universe, Black elected officials are often left bargaining for “Black jobs” as committee people or settling for inflated titles that bolster their egos as Black leaders.

The need for a reset in Black politics in Hudson County is clear. Acknowledging that the African American population here does not match the numbers in places like Essex County or Newark is the first step.

To paraphrase former President Trump, gentrification and the rise of other ethnic groups have taken the “Black jobs” in Hudson County.

The path forward requires a reassessment of strategies and a renewed focus on engaging the community in meaningful ways. Only then can the legacy of African American political influence be revitalized in Hudson County.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of Bruce (The Chronicler in Chief) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of HudPost or its editorial staff.