Verlina Reynolds-Jackson

Verlina Reynolds-Jackson is a prominent American politician and social worker, currently serving as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly representing the 15th Legislative District. A member of the Democratic Party, she has been in office since 2018 and is recognized for her commitment to various social issues, particularly in education and community outreach. Reynolds-Jackson has held several leadership positions within the Assembly, including Deputy Majority Leader and Chair of the Education Committee. Her political career is marked by her dedication to public service and her advocacy for the constituents of her district.

Early life and career

Verlina Reynolds-Jackson was born on July 26, 1971, in Trenton, New Jersey, where she has spent her entire life. She is the daughter of a Vietnam War veteran and a mother who worked as a typist in the Attorney General's office, which provided her with a unique perspective on the importance of public service and civic engagement from an early age. Reynolds-Jackson attended Trenton Central High School, where she began to develop her interests in community involvement and leadership.

Following her high school education, Reynolds-Jackson pursued higher education at Trenton State College, now known as The College of New Jersey, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology. This academic background laid the foundation for her future work in social services and public policy. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Science in administration from Central Michigan University, equipping her with the skills necessary for effective governance and organizational management.

In her professional career, Reynolds-Jackson has worked in various capacities that reflect her commitment to community welfare. She served in the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs within the Division of Housing, where she focused on housing issues affecting residents. Additionally, she worked as a social worker for the Mercer County Board of Social Services, where she gained firsthand experience in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. This background in social work has informed her legislative priorities and her approach to public service.

Legislative service

Reynolds-Jackson's political career began with her election to the Trenton City Council in 2010, where she made history as the first Black woman to represent the East Ward. Her tenure on the council lasted until 2018, during which she was re-elected for a second term. In her role on the City Council, she was actively involved in local governance and community issues, ultimately serving as Council President. Her leadership on the council allowed her to gain valuable experience in legislative processes and constituent engagement.

In January 2018, Reynolds-Jackson transitioned to the New Jersey General Assembly after being selected to fill the vacancy left by Assemblywoman Elizabeth Maher Muoio, who was appointed as the Treasurer of New Jersey. Reynolds-Jackson was chosen at a Democratic county convention and subsequently won a special election later that year, solidifying her position as a member of the Assembly. Since taking office, she has been re-elected multiple times, demonstrating her continued support among constituents.

Throughout her tenure in the Assembly, Reynolds-Jackson has held several leadership roles, including serving as Deputy Majority Leader from 2020 to 2021. She has also been the Constituent Outreach Chair since 2022, reflecting her commitment to engaging with the community and addressing the needs of her constituents. Her involvement in various committees, such as the Education Committee and the Joint Committee on Public Schools, has allowed her to influence education policy and advocate for improvements in the public school system.

Reynolds-Jackson has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous pieces of legislation during her time in the Assembly. Notably, she was a primary sponsor of a bill that mandates the inclusion of diversity and inclusion education in the curriculum for students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. This legislation highlights her focus on promoting equity and representation within the educational system. Additionally, she has been involved in efforts to enhance voting rights and has advocated for various education-related initiatives.

As of 2026, Reynolds-Jackson continues to serve on several key committees, including as Chair of the Education Committee and Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee. Her roles in these committees allow her to shape budgetary decisions and educational policies that impact her district and the state as a whole.

Policy focus and district

Representing the 15th Legislative District, Reynolds-Jackson is part of a legislative team that includes Senator Shirley Turner and Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli. The district encompasses parts of Mercer County and is characterized by its diverse population and range of socioeconomic challenges. As a legislator, Reynolds-Jackson has focused on several key issues that resonate with her constituents, including healthcare access, public education, and criminal justice reform.

Reynolds-Jackson's commitment to improving healthcare access and affordability is a central theme in her legislative agenda. She has consistently advocated for policies that aim to enhance the quality of healthcare services available to residents of her district, particularly for underserved communities. Her focus on public education is equally significant, as she seeks to ensure that all students have access to quality educational opportunities that prepare them for future success.

In addition to her legislative work, Reynolds-Jackson has announced her candidacy for the 2026 Democratic primary for New Jersey's 12th congressional district, aiming to succeed Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, who has announced her retirement. In her campaign, she emphasizes her legislative experience and her dedication to addressing critical issues such as healthcare, education, and criminal justice reform. Her candidacy has garnered support from various state legislators and local officials, as well as endorsements from labor unions and the Mercer County Democratic Committee.

Reynolds-Jackson's political career reflects her deep-rooted commitment to public service and her dedication to improving the lives of her constituents. Through her work in the New Jersey General Assembly and her ongoing campaign for Congress, she continues to advocate for policies that promote equity, access, and opportunity for all residents of her district and beyond.