Piscataway progressive group backs Baraka

In a vote of its members, Ras Baraka garnered more than 80% of the vote, and the grassroots Piscataway Progressive Democratic Organization endorsed him for governor.

The endorsement comes with the backing of two Piscataway councilwomen, Sarah Rashid and Laura Leibowitz, who defeated two incumbents in last year’s 2024 Democratic primary. Last year, Leibowitz and Rashid created a slate that was both Muslim and Jewish.

According to Staci Berger, president of the PPDO, Mayor Baraka has fulfilled his promises; he has transformed Newark and given everyone genuine chances based on his principles and vision. His leadership is about outcomes, not rhetoric. He has prioritized working families in every situation, and we are certain that he will protect our most vulnerable neighbors from the Trump Administration’s attacks. That is the type of governor’s office leadership that New Jersey needs.

Berger commended Baraka’s work to eliminate lead in water service lines, reduce homelessness on the streets, establish New Jersey’s first universal basic income pilot program, and increase youth voting rights.

She claimed that he has turned audacious concepts into actual, attainable realities.

In the Democratic primary last June, Berger defeated incumbent Mayor Brian Wahler with 43% of the vote, giving progressives a base of support in this Democratic bastion in Middlesex.

This support is about the type of party we want to be, not just about me. Like me, the Piscataway Progressive Democratic Organization thinks we should embrace our Democratic identity. According to Baraka, this is pursuing equity, increasing opportunities, and making sure that everyone benefits when the tide rises. Moderation will not defeat radicalism. We must approach this time with foresight, bravery, and the determination to bring about meaningful change.