Abdur R. Yasin, a 24-year West Orange firefighter, longtime Democratic leader, and Rutgers University-Newark instructor, has announced his candidacy for Essex County Commissioner At-Large ahead of the March 21 Essex County Democratic Committee Convention at Caldwell University.
Yasin, a 40-year Essex County resident, is seeking the Democratic Party’s endorsement for the 2026 ballot.
“For more than two decades, I have dedicated my life to public service — protecting families as a firefighter, organizing our party as Democratic Chair, and educating the next generation at Rutgers,” said Yasin. “Now more than ever, Essex County deserves leadership rooted in service, integrity, and real-world experience.”
Yasin has:
- Served nearly 24 years with the West Orange Fire Department
- Been a member of the NJFMBA, the state’s largest firefighters union, for nearly 24 years
- Served as Democratic Chair of West Orange for eight years
- Taught at Rutgers University-Newark for 11 years
- Served on local boards and nonprofit organizations supporting community initiatives
Yasin says his campaign will focus on strengthening county services, supporting working families, investing in public safety, and ensuring that county government remains transparent and responsive to residents.
“With rising costs and growing demands on local services, we need county leadership that understands both frontline public service and the needs of our communities,” Yasin added. “I am ready to bring that perspective to the Commissioner’s office.”
The Essex County Democratic Committee Convention will take place March 21 at Caldwell University, where committee members will vote to endorse candidates for the 2026 ballot.
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