Hudson Democrats Unite for LD-33 Assembly Ceremony

Lawmakers sworn in at event hosted by Union City Mayor Brian Stack

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO) held a ceremonial swearing-in event for the newly elected state assemblymen of the 33rd Legislative District at The Boulevard in North Bergen. The event was hosted by Union City Mayor Brian Stack and featured speeches from various Hudson County politicians, including Congressman Rob Menendez, Hudson County Executive Craig Guy, and Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour.

Why it matters

The event highlighted the importance of unity among Hudson County Democrats as they face fiscal challenges and issues like ICE detentions in their communities. The gathering of local leaders demonstrated their commitment to working together to serve their constituents.

The details

The event featured the ceremonial swearing-in of Assemblymen Gabriel Rodriguez and Larry Wainstein, who were formally sworn in last month. Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner served as the emcee, while Union City Board of Education Secretary Justin Mercado provided Spanish translation. Speakers emphasized the need for collaboration and highlighted the nearly $18 million in funding that came to the district last year to support initiatives like early education programs and a new recreation center in West New York.

  • The event took place on the evening of February 18, 2026.

The players

Brian Stack

Union City Mayor and State Senator (D-33) who hosted the event.

Gabriel Rodriguez

Newly elected Assemblyman for the 33rd Legislative District.

Larry Wainstein

Newly elected Assemblyman for the 33rd Legislative District, who is also considering a run for North Bergen mayor next year.

Rob Menendez

U.S. Representative (D-8) who congratulated the new assemblymen.

Craig Guy

Hudson County Executive and HCDO Chair.

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What they’re saying

“There is an immense amount of work we need to do to serve you, our constituents, our neighbors.”

— Rob Menendez, U.S. Representative (D-8) (hudsoncountyview.com)

“We want to be able to provide the 33rd district with the resources that they need. When we work together, we win… There are several towns up here that are going to experience some tough fiscal problems.”

— Craig Guy, Hudson County Executive and HCDO Chair (hudsoncountyview.com)

“Together, all of us working in unity, we will make things better in Hudson County. Together we can unify to address that.”

— James Solomon, Jersey City Mayor (hudsoncountyview.com)

What’s next

The newly sworn-in assemblymen, Rodriguez and Wainstein, will begin their work representing the 33rd Legislative District, focusing on issues like fiscal challenges and ICE detentions that were highlighted at the event.

The takeaway

The ceremonial swearing-in event demonstrated the importance of unity among Hudson County Democrats as they work to address the needs of their communities. The gathering of local leaders highlighted their commitment to collaboration and their shared goal of serving their constituents effectively.