Jessica González-Rojas

Jessica González-Rojas is an American politician and activist currently serving as a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 34th district. A member of the Democratic Party and the Working Families Party, she has been in office since 2021 after winning a primary election against the incumbent. González-Rojas is recognized for her advocacy work, particularly in the areas of health and reproductive rights for Latino and immigrant communities. She is also known for her academic contributions as an adjunct professor and her involvement with various legislative committees.

Early life and career

Jessica González-Rojas was born on May 19, 1976. She has a diverse cultural background, being of Paraguayan and Puerto Rican descent. González-Rojas pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree in international relations from Boston University. She furthered her academic credentials by obtaining a Master's in Public Administration from the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service at New York University. This educational foundation has informed her work in public service and advocacy.

Before her entry into politics, González-Rojas held significant positions in various organizations. She served as the executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, where she focused on advocating for access to affordable health and reproductive care specifically for Latino and immigrant communities. This role highlighted her commitment to social justice and health equity, issues that continue to influence her legislative priorities. In addition to her advocacy work, she has contributed to academia as an adjunct professor of Latin American Studies at the City University of New York's City College, where she has shared her knowledge and experiences with students.

Legislative service

González-Rojas announced her candidacy for the New York State Assembly in 2019, seeking to represent the 34th district, which encompasses parts of Jackson Heights, Woodside, Corona, and East Elmhurst in Queens, New York. Her campaign gained momentum with endorsements from prominent figures, including U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders. In the 2020 Democratic primary, she successfully defeated the incumbent, Michael DenDekker, and subsequently won the general election later that year.

Since taking office, González-Rojas has been an active member of the New York State Assembly. She has been involved in various legislative initiatives, including a notable bill that was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul, which mandates that all New York State agencies include Middle Eastern and North African categories on applications and surveys for self-identification. This legislation reflects her commitment to inclusivity and representation for diverse communities.

González-Rojas serves on several committees, including the Committee on Children and Families, the Committee on Cities, the Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions, the Committee on Environmental Conservation, and the Committee on Social Services. Her committee memberships indicate a broad interest in issues affecting families, urban development, environmental concerns, and social services. Additionally, she is part of various task forces and caucuses, such as the Asian Pacific American Task Force, the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus, the Legislative Women's Caucus, the Task Force on New Americans, the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force, and the Task Force on Women's Issues. These affiliations demonstrate her engagement with a wide range of social and legislative issues.

In the 2021 New York City mayoral election, González-Rojas was the first elected official to endorse Dianne Morales, a progressive candidate. This endorsement aligns with her political ideology and her involvement with the Democratic Socialists of America, of which she is a member. Her political activities reflect a commitment to progressive values and advocacy for marginalized communities.

Policy focus and district

González-Rojas's policy focus encompasses a variety of issues, particularly those impacting immigrant communities, health care access, and social justice. Her background in reproductive health advocacy informs her legislative priorities, emphasizing the need for equitable health care services for all constituents. As a representative of a diverse district, she is particularly attuned to the needs and concerns of her constituents, which include a significant immigrant population.

In addition to her advocacy for health and social services, González-Rojas has taken a stance on economic development initiatives within her district. She supports projects that aim to enhance local economic opportunities, such as the proposed Metropolitan Park project in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. This integrated resort, which includes plans for a casino, has sparked debate among local leaders. While her opponent, incumbent Jessica Ramos, has expressed opposition to the project, González-Rojas has highlighted the potential benefits it could bring to the community, indicating her willingness to engage with complex economic issues.

As she continues her service in the New York State Assembly, González-Rojas is also preparing to run for the New York State Senate in 2026, seeking to represent the 13th district. Her candidacy has garnered support from various local leaders and organizations, reflecting her growing influence within the political landscape. Her campaign is characterized by a focus on progressive values and community engagement, positioning her as a prominent figure in New York politics.

In summary, Jessica González-Rojas's career as a state legislator is marked by her dedication to advocacy, her academic contributions, and her active engagement in legislative processes. Her work reflects a commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents and advocating for policies that promote social justice and equity. As she moves forward in her political career, she continues to build on her foundation of activism and public service.