Akeem Cunningham named executive director of Essex Dems

Akeem Cunningham, a rising star in New Jersey Democratic politics, has been named executive director of the Essex County Democratic Committee under the veteran county chairman, LeRoy Jones, Jr.

His appointment brings his transformation from insurgent to organization insider full circle. In 2013, at age 23, he mounted an off-the-line challenge for an East Orange City Council seat and finished second in a four-way race after coming within eight points of the incumbent, Christopher James.  He quickly endorsed James and became part of the local Democratic organization.

The son of a single mother, Cunningham became a firefighter in East Orange, worked for Democratic candidates, and was the deputy chief of staff to Mayor Ted Green.  He currently serves as chief of external affairs and strategic initiatives at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

“I learned early that character is revealed in how you handle setbacks,” said Cunningham. “I didn’t win that race, but I gained relationships, perspective, and a deeper appreciation for service. Chairman Jones saw something in me long before I held any title, and I’ll never forget that.”

In 2025, Cunningham served as regional campaign director for Mikie Sherrill’s campaign for governor.  Cunningham built an innovative, youth-led field operation that empowered 17- and 18-year-olds to lead canvassing efforts across Essex County.  Over six weeks, the team knocked on more than 60,000 doors, helping generate one of the largest Democratic vote margins in county history. Their success earned praise from Governor Sherrill on election night.

“Akeem’s story is the embodiment of what Essex County is all about,” said Jones.  “He has dedicated his life to serving others—as a firefighter, mentor, community advocate, and Democratic leader. What has always impressed me most is his willingness to do the work, earn respect, and keep showing up for his community. He understands that leadership is not about titles; it’s about service.”

Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz (D-Newark), the Essex Democratic Vice Chair, saluted Cunningham’s understanding of creating pluralities through diversity and said his “energy, work ethic, and ability to connect with people make him an outstanding choice to help lead the Essex County Democratic Committee into the future.”

“Throughout his career, he has shown a genuine commitment to building relationships across every corner of our county and ensuring that every community has a seat at the table,” said Ruiz.  “He recognizes the tremendous contributions of our Latino community and understands that our success as a party depends on engaging, listening to, and empowering all of our residents.

Cunningham credited opportunities through Essex County for “changing the trajectory of my life.”

“I am deeply grateful to Chairman Jones, our officers, and the members of the Essex County Democratic Committee for their trust and confidence,” he said.  “This county has poured so much into me over the years, and now it’s my turn to give that same love, energy, and commitment back to the people and communities that helped shape me.”