Who Represents New Jersey in the House of Representatives?
The House of Representatives is one of the two chambers of the United States Congress. New Jersey, being one of the 50 states, is represented in the House of Representatives by twelve representatives. Each representative is elected to a two-year term. The number of representatives per state is based on the state’s population. New Jersey is the eleventh most populous state and therefore, has twelve representatives in the House of Representatives.
The Role of a New Jersey Representative
The primary role of a New Jersey representative is to represent the interests of their constituents in Congress. They do this by introducing and co-sponsoring legislation, voting on bills, and serving on committees that address issues important to their district and state. They also act as a liaison between their constituents and the federal government, assisting individuals and groups in navigating federal agencies and programs.
Qualifications to Become a NJ Representative
To become a representative of New Jersey, a candidate must be at least 25 years old, a citizen of the United States for at least seven years, and a resident of New Jersey. Candidates do not need to live in the district they seek to represent.
How is the NJ Representative Elected?
New Jersey representatives are elected in a general election held every two years. Candidates run in the party primary election to be the party’s nominee for the general election. The candidate who receives the most votes in the general election is elected to represent the district in the House of Representatives.
The Current Member of the NJ House of Representatives
As of May 2021, the current member of the House of Representatives from New Jersey is Andy Kim, a Democrat who represents the state’s third congressional district. Kim was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and was re-elected in 2020.
A Brief History of NJ Representatives
New Jersey has been represented in the House of Representatives since the first United States Congress in 1789. Over the years, New Jersey has had a variety of representatives, including future presidents James Garfield and Franklin D. Roosevelt. The state’s representation has changed over time, with the number of representatives shifting from five to thirteen and back down to twelve.
What Issues Does the NJ Representative Focus on?
The issues that a New Jersey representative focuses on can vary depending on the needs of their district and the state. Andy Kim, for example, has focused on issues such as economic growth, affordable healthcare, and climate change.
How to Contact Your NJ Representative
Individuals who wish to contact their representative can do so by phone, email, or mail. Contact information for New Jersey representatives is available on the House of Representatives website.
How Does the NJ Representative Vote?
New Jersey representatives vote on bills and other legislation in the House of Representatives. Members of the House can vote in person or through a proxy vote. Each representative’s vote is recorded and made public.
Committees the NJ Representative Serves On
New Jersey representatives can serve on a variety of committees in the House of Representatives. Currently, Andy Kim serves on the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Small Business.
How Does the NJ Representative Represent Constituents?
A New Jersey representative represents their constituents by listening to their concerns, introducing and supporting legislation that addresses those concerns, and advocating for their district’s needs in Congress. They also help constituents navigate federal agencies and programs.
Future of the NJ Representative Position
The position of New Jersey representative will continue to be an important role in Congress. As the state’s population grows, the number of representatives may change, but the responsibility of representing New Jersey and its citizens will remain the same.
