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“This country has given me everything—freedom, opportunity. Now I want to give back.” David Jiang’s decision to enter politics stems from a deeply personal moment. After being hospitalized with COVID-19 and losing his mother in 2020, he shifted from living for “me” to living for “us.” Since then, he has been actively involved in nonprofits such as Bergen Chinese School and Community Chest, building strong bonds within the local community.
In late 2024, New Jersey’s political scene shifted again as Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop announced his candidacy for governor. David Jiang and his running mate, former Dumont mayor Andrew Lubruno, joined the Fulop campaign’s coalition ticket [source: New Jersey Globe]. Fulop described them as “true reformers who will bring change to District 39,” a historically Republican stronghold that is now politically evolving. “Mayor Fulop is pragmatic and forward-thinking. It’s an honor to work with him and bring meaningful change to our district.”
Jiang’s leadership is rooted in action, not rhetoric. With experience on Wall Street and as CEO of a successful import business employing dozens, he also served on the Demarest city council. There, he championed local economic revitalization, improved emergency infrastructure, and worked to redevelop downtown businesses. “Business taught me problem-solving. Volunteering taught me to listen. Together, they’re vital assets for public office.” Today, as chair of the Demarest Downtown Revitalization Committee, he’s helping the community recover from post-COVID stagnation.
“We need an education system that offers opportunity—not just high test scores.” Among Jiang’s top policy priorities is expanding access to quality education. He advocates for gifted program expansion, increased funding for special education, after-school support, and tax incentives for dual-income and single-parent households. He also argues for broader access to elite schools like Bergen Academies and Bergen Tech. “Education determines property values and defines community standards,” he says—tying youth development directly to regional progress.
Jiang is also vocal about addressing school safety, gun violence, and mental health. Partnering with the local board of education and police, he has implemented monthly emergency drills and expanded awareness training for students and parents. “Violence can be stopped by law, but prevention happens through listening. We need to hear our kids, make sure they don’t feel isolated.” For him, politics must be rooted in improving daily life, not just creating new laws—a principle shaped by three years of grassroots governance.
“We pay taxes. We are part of society. But we’re still excluded from politics. That must change.” Jiang hopes this election marks a new chapter of political awareness for Asian-American voters. “Voting isn’t just a right—it’s how we prove our presence. It’s how our community finds its voice.”
Jiang doesn’t offer empty promises or flashy speeches. Instead, he knocked on doors in a small town, listened to people, and earned their trust by solving problems. Now, he hopes to bring that same authenticity to the 39th District—and all eyes are on whether this immigrant son and steady leader can spark a new chapter in New Jersey politics.
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David Jiang
