A member of Andy Kim’s U.S. Senate campaign staff will be the statewide political director of Ras Baraka’s bid for the Democratic nomination for governor.
Sam Blackwood served as South Jersey regional political director for Kim in the primary and general elections.
“Sam Blackwood is a new force in Democratic politics, and we’re thrilled to have him on board,” Baraka said. “His experience and vision will be instrumental as we continue shaping a brighter future for the hard-working people of this state. We are excited about the team we are building here as we expand the broad-based coalition essential for driving real change.”
In 2023, Blackwood worked in Monmouth County’s 11th district to re-elect State Sen. Vin Gopal (D-Long Branch) and flip two Assembly seats by electing Luanne Peterpaul (D-Long Branch) and Margie Donlon (D-Ocean).
Gopal called Blackwood “a rising star in New Jersey politics.”
“Whether it was the work he did for us in Monmouth County in 2023 or his campaign work for Andy Kim last year, he always gave it his all,” said Gopal. “This is a great hire by Mayor Baraka, and I wish Sam continued professional success.”
Before working in New Jersey, he worked for When We All Vote, Michelle Obama’s organization, and the Newark-based Project Ready.