Enlacosa.com Tu Medio Digital
Paterson, NJ – With a strong call for unity and voter mobilization, the Paterson NJ Republican Club held a meeting in support of its candidates ahead of the upcoming May elections. The event brought together county and city candidates, party leadership, and community members committed to increasing Republican representation in Paterson and Passaic County.
The event was led by Jeyss Abreu, president of the club and candidate for Paterson City Council at-large, who emphasized the importance of strengthening the Republican presence in a city historically dominated by Democrats. “Paterson needs representation, it needs action, and it needs unity,” he stated.
Ramon Leon: Party Leadership and Growth
The President of the Republican Party in Paterson, Ramon Leon, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to expanding its base in the city. Leon acknowledged the challenges of organizing in a predominantly Democratic city but stressed that steady work and unity are producing results.
“We have been working hard. It’s not easy, but we are growing. We must put differences aside and unite for the good of Paterson,” Leon said, encouraging members to stay focused and organized as the election season approaches.
Sebastian Mejia: Opening the Floor to the Community
Party Chairman Sebastian Mejia opened the floor for questions and comments, encouraging direct engagement between candidates and attendees. Mejia highlighted the importance of listening to residents and strengthening the party’s structure at the grassroots level.
Billy Rodriguez: Representation on the County Board
Passaic County Commissioner candidate Billy Rodriguez addressed the lack of Republican representation on the County Board of Commissioners, noting that Democrats currently hold all seats. He argued that this imbalance has contributed to the neglect of urban centers like Paterson.
Rodriguez pledged to advocate for fiscal responsibility, law and order, and taxpayer-friendly policies. He emphasized accountability and promised to ensure that Paterson residents receive the attention and resources they deserve at the county level.
Jessica Sprague: Reforming the Surrogate’s Office
Passaic County Surrogate candidate Jessica Sprague outlined her legal background and her vision for improving the Surrogate’s Office. Born in Paterson and having dedicated her entire legal career to Passaic County, Sprague stressed the need for efficiency, professionalism, and accessibility in the probate system.
She criticized current delays in processing estates and guardianship applications, explaining that the surrogate’s role is administrative—not judicial—and should focus on facilitating, not complicating, legal procedures.
Sprague also highlighted her role in helping develop the Non-Dissolution Unit, a pro bono mediation-style program designed to assist unmarried parents in resolving family matters. Many of the participants, she noted, are Paterson residents. She further emphasized the importance of educating families—especially within immigrant communities—about guardianship requirements for special needs children once they turn 18.
Call to Mobilize the Hispanic Community
Paterson at-large City Council candidate Victor Urbaez urged attendees to actively support the Republican candidates and to help educate the Hispanic community about critical legal issues such as guardianship. Sharing his personal experience with a lengthy guardianship process, he stressed the need for reform and awareness.
Also addressing the audience was Kelly Amico, Vice Chair of the Passaic County Regular Republican Organization. She expressed pride in the slate of candidates and underscored the importance of breaking through to gain Republican representation on the County Board of Commissioners.
A Message of Unity Ahead of May
The meeting concluded with a unified message: organization, grassroots engagement, and collaboration will be key to success in the May elections. Party leaders and candidates emphasized that their campaign efforts have already begun—even before the primary season officially starts—demonstrating their commitment to showing up, engaging the community, and working toward meaningful change in Paterson and Passaic County.
