Shama Haider

Shama Haider was born on December 20, 1948, in Pakistan. She emigrated to the United States in 1977. A member of the Democratic Party, she represents the 37th legislative district in the New Jersey General Assembly. She assumed office on January 11, 2022, serving alongside Assemblywoman Ellen Park. Haider is recognized as one of the first Muslim women elected to the New Jersey Legislature, achieving this milestone along with Sadaf Jaffer.

Education

Haider was born and raised in Pakistan, where she attended the University of Punjab.

Political Experience

Prior to her state legislative service, Haider worked as Secretary to the First Lady of Pakistan, Nusrat Bhutto. In New Jersey, she was active in local politics for over two decades, serving on the Tenafly Borough Council. She was elected to the council in both 2001 and 2015.

Haider was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly in the November 2021 general election. She won re-election in 2023. Within the Assembly, she has served as Deputy Majority Leader since 2024. Her committee assignments for the 2024—2025 Legislative Session include Health, Appropriations, and Children, Families and Food Security, where she serves as chair.