Elections in Paterson Prepare for May 12 Municipal Vote: 4 Mayoral Candidates and 16 Running for At-Large Council Seats

The city of Paterson is heading toward a decisive municipal election on May 12, 2026, where voters will choose the next mayor and members of the Municipal At-Large Council. The race is taking place amid visible divisions among different communities in the city, reflecting Paterson’s political and cultural diversity.

In total, four candidates are running for mayor, while 16 candidates are competing for one of the At-Large council seats, positions that represent the entire city rather than specific districts.

Mayoral Candidates

The following candidates will appear on the ballot with their respective designations:

1A – Alex Mendez
“Committed To Community / Dedicated To Progress”

2A – Mohammed Akhtaruzzaman
“It’s Time To Save Paterson”

3A – Andre Sayegh
“Positioning Paterson For Progress”

4A – Michael Jackson
“Our Life Guard”

At-Large Council Candidates

A total of 16 candidates will compete for the At-Large council seats:

1B – Mosleh Uddin
“Leadership You Can Trust”

2B – Abed Thabatah
“Paterson First”

3B – Paula Alford
“The People’s Voice”

4B – Md Forid Uddin
“Your Voice!”

5B – Sonia Deliz
“Together We Are Paterson”

6B – Lavana Wilson
“I’m A Patersonian, Not A Politician”

7B – Jeyss Abreu
“Together For A Stronger Paterson”

8B – Eddy Olivares
“Restore Our City”

9B – Victor Urbaez
“Time Has Come!!!”

10B – Juan “Mitch” Santiago
“Let’s Do It Again”

11B – Casey Melvin
“Press Here to Win”

12B – Eddie Gonzalez
“Former Board President: Experienced, Trusted Patersonian”

13B – Lilisa Mimms
“A Better Paterson”

14B – David Gilmore
“David Gilmore For Accountability in Paterson”

15B – Maritza Davila
“Consistency Matters”

16B – Gilman Choudhury
(No ballot designation)

Community Impact of the Election

This year’s elections have highlighted differences and alliances among Paterson’s diverse communities, including Latino, African American, Arab, and Bangladeshi residents seeking stronger representation in local government.

Local analysts believe the large number of At-Large candidates reflects strong interest from community leaders in shaping Paterson’s future political direction. The election results could influence key issues such as public safety, economic development, and municipal services.

Residents of Paterson will have the opportunity to vote on May 12, 2026, in what is expected to be one of the most competitive and closely watched municipal elections in recent city history.