Sergio Granados will seek Atkins’ Assembly seat

Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, a rising star in Union County politics since his election to county office in 2013 at age 26, will seek the Democratic nomination for State Assembly in the 20th legislative district.

Granados announced his candidacy for the open seat of Assemblyman Reginald Atkins (D-Roselle).  Atkins said this morning that he won’t seek re-election to a third term.

“Throughout my career, I’ve worked closely with residents as they’ve faced struggles and celebrated triumphs. I have been dedicated to making government work for the people—not against them,” said Granados.  “Now, I’m ready to bring our fight for progress and opportunity to Trenton. I’m running for the State Assembly because I believe we can build a future where every family has access to the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.”

He said he’d be guided by the principles of “In the Community, For the Community, Of the Community.”

“I have always believed that leadership starts with listening,” stated Granados. “This campaign isn’t about me—it’s about us. It’s about building a future where every resident feels valued, heard, and supported. Together, we can ensure Trenton delivers for our families, our children, and our communities.”

In a primary likely being held with office block ballots and no county organization lines, Granados is expected to have the support of top Democratic officials in Union County and to run with Assembly Speaker Pro-Tempore Annette Quijano (D-Elizabeth).

Another Elizabeth-based candidate, Eduardo Rodriguez, who served as planning and community development director in Elizabeth Mayor Bollwage’s administration, has also filed to seek the 20th district seat with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission.

Elizabeth makes up 49% of the registered Democrats in the district; Union Township, where State Sen. Joseph Cryan (D-Union) lives and serves as municipal chairman, is 34% of the total number of Democrats who live in the 20th.

Granados took office as a freeholder in late 2013 after Daniel Sullivan stepped down to take a county post.  He’s won four countywide elections.

He’s up for re-election this year, and his candidacy for the legislature means an open county commissioner seat.

Granados works for the Elizabeth Health and Housing Department and is a close ally of Bollwage.  The son of Portuguese and Salvadoran parents, the bilingual lifelong Elizabeth resident also speaks Portuguese and Spanish.

As a county commissioner, Granados cited his work on enhancing county parks and open space, expanding mental health services and public safety, creating jobs and affordable housing, and aiding his constituents during the pandemic.

He paid tribute to Atkins, calling him “a dynamic and compassionate leader, advocating for the residents of the 20th district.”

“His dedication to public service and commitment to equity have left a lasting impact, and I thank him for being a tremendous partner to our communities,” Granados said.

Jamel Holley, a former assemblyman and Roselle mayor, said he would support Granados.

“Granados has consistently demonstrated dedication to fostering community engagement, advocating for social justice, and promoting economic development,” said Holley.  “His successful collaboration with local organizations and stakeholders highlights his understanding of the issues that matter most to residents.”