South Ward Councilman Announces 2026 Reelection Campaign

Patrick O. Council vows to 'Continue Moving The South Ward Forward'

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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South Ward Councilman Patrick O. Council has officially announced his campaign for reelection in 2026, running on a platform of continuity, accountability, and unfinished work to directly impact families, seniors, and small businesses throughout the ward. Councilman Council has focused his tenure on delivering practical results, responsive leadership, and consistent advocacy for neighborhood priorities, in alignment with the values and vision of Mayor Ras J. Baraka.

Why it matters

Councilman Council's reelection bid reflects the importance of consistent, hands-on leadership in Newark's South Ward, where he has championed affordable housing, advanced legislation, invested in local nonprofits, enhanced public safety, and supported community programs. His campaign slogan 'Let's Continue Moving The South Ward Forward' emphasizes the need for sustained progress on the issues that matter most to residents.

The details

During his current term, Councilman Council has focused on improving local services, strengthening neighborhoods, addressing illegal construction and conversions, enhancing infrastructure, spurring economic development, and supporting community programs. His reelection campaign will build upon this past progress while also tackling emerging challenges facing the South Ward and the city of Newark.

  • Councilman Council was first elected to serve the South Ward in 2022.
  • Councilman Council officially announced his 2026 reelection campaign on February 10, 2026.

The players

Patrick O. Council

South Ward Councilman who is seeking reelection in 2026, running with Team Baraka and emphasizing continuity, accountability, and unfinished work to directly impact families, seniors, and small businesses throughout the ward.

Ras J. Baraka

Mayor of Newark, whose values and vision Councilman Council's campaign is aligned with.

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What they’re saying

“Serving the people of the South Ward has been an honor, and the work is far from done. From improving local services to strengthening our neighborhoods, I'm still working every day to make sure residents are heard and results are delivered.”

— Patrick O. Council, South Ward Councilman

“I don't see this role as a title, it's a responsibility. I'm running for reelection because the South Ward deserves leadership that doesn't slow down.”

— Patrick O. Council, South Ward Councilman

What’s next

Councilman Council's reelection campaign will focus on building upon past progress while addressing emerging challenges facing the South Ward and the city of Newark.

The takeaway

Councilman Council's reelection bid underscores the importance of consistent, hands-on leadership in Newark's South Ward, where he has championed community priorities and delivered tangible results. His campaign slogan 'Let's Continue Moving The South Ward Forward' reflects a commitment to sustained progress on the issues that matter most to residents.