Biography
LaMonica R. McIver, born on June 20, 1986, in Newark, New Jersey, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving New Jersey's 10th Congressional District. She was sworn into Congress on September 23, 2024, following a special election to complete the term of the late Representative Donald J. Payne Jr. McIver is the first Black woman and the youngest person ever elected to Congress from New Jersey.
Raised in Newark's Central Ward, McIver's commitment to public service began early, influenced by local leaders such as Mildred Crump and Ras Baraka. At age 13, she mobilized youth to emphasize the importance of civic engagement. In 2012, she founded Newark G.A.L.S., Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring future female leaders, which has impacted over 3,000 young women.
In 2018, McIver was elected to the Newark Municipal Council, becoming the youngest woman to hold that position. She served as Council President from 2022 until her election to Congress in 2024. During her tenure, she championed initiatives in education, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.
Education
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Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Bloomfield College
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Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy from Seton Hall University
Political Experience
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Newark Municipal Council: Elected in 2018, served as Council President from 2022 to 2024.
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U.S. House of Representatives: Elected in a special election in September 2024 to represent New Jersey's 10th Congressional District.
Notable Achievements and Positions
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Committee Assignments: Serves on the House Small Business and Homeland Security Committees.
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Leadership Roles:
- Ranking Member of the Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access Subcommittee of the House Small Business Committee
- Ranking Member of the Transportation and Maritime Security Subcommittee of the House Homeland Security Committee
- New Member Liaison of the Democratic Women’s Caucus
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Environmental Advocacy: Led efforts to replace 18,000 lead lines in Newark's water system and continues to advocate for environmental justice and sustainability.
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Community Engagement: Through Newark G.A.L.S., Inc., has mentored over 3,000 young women, fostering leadership and community involvement.
McIver's dedication to public service and her community continues to drive her legislative priorities, focusing on economic development, education, and environmental sustainability.
