Meet Jhamar
I’m Jhamar Youngblood, a Newark native who began at L.A. Spencer public school in the gifted and talented program, then attended St. Benedict’s Prep. I later attended Monmouth University and Rider University, studying finance, and continued to Dartmouth College for my master’s to study how local governments operate around the world.
I’ve built my career using technology to solve problems that matter. During the pandemic, I partnered with the Newark Board of Education to create software to help public school students stay connected with their mentors, and in 2017 I received a $50,000 city grant to build a safety app that protects women and teens from violence.
As mayor, I’ll make Newark’s government more efficient and open by improving city systems, publishing clear data on spending and decision-making, and investing in technology that delivers real results for residents. I’ll leverage innovation to make our city more affordable, cleaner, and safer, and give residents more power in shaping Newark’s future.
Top Priorities
Modernizing Newark: Newark will leverage technology more effectively to make the city more transparent, affordable, and efficient. We will expand smart infrastructure, digital tools, and modern systems that help residents and small businesses thrive. By building on our existing infrastructure, prime location, and local talent, we can position Newark as one of the most visited and admired cities in the world.
Rebuilding Newark’s Reputation: Newark has been defined by corruption and political games for too long. We will restore integrity by enforcing full transparency and holding every public official accountable. My goal is to rebuild Newark’s reputation as a city known for honesty, pride, and respect.
Putting Power in Residents’ Hands: Real progress means residents have access to every piece of data and a voice in every major decision. We will build systems where Newarkers can track budgets, projects, and policies in real time. This campaign is about shifting power from politicians to the people who actually live here.
Newark30
Newark30 is our plan to build a stronger, self-sufficient Newark. We want every resident to have real access to housing, food, and jobs, and a direct say in the city’s future. After you read the full plan, leave a comment and share your ideas to help shape Newark. Let’s build this together.
Speaking at City Hall
I’ve been bringing real issues and real solutions to our city’s leaders, but no one has responded. That silence showed me the problem is not just policy, it is connection. There is a gap between residents who care and the people in City Hall who should be listening. That is why I am running for mayor, to close that gap and build a government that actually hears and works with its people to make our city better.
FAQ’s
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I believe Newark’s success and my personal reputation are inherently aligned. By putting Newark first and focusing on the collective good of our residents, I will gain the trust and respect of the city, which is far more valuable than any personal gain. My goal is to ensure that every decision benefits the city and its people.
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I will take a firm approach with outside interests, making it clear that Newark is not just a place to make money. Anyone doing business here must prioritize contributing to the city’s growth, supporting its residents, and strengthening the community. Newark’s overall success will always come first, with individual success following as a result.
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My plan is to stay connected with Newarkers by creating accessible channels for residents to share their concerns, ideas, and feedback. This starts with Our Newark, a new social site designed exclusively for our community. This platform will allow residents to post about issues, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions. By fostering ongoing dialogue, we can ensure that leadership remains responsive to the real needs of the community and that every voice plays a part in shaping Newark’s future. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Newark.
Our Newark will launch in February of 2025.
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We will implement technology similar to Checkbook NYC, allowing residents to track how every government dollar is spent and providing insight into decision-making processes. This transparency will build trust and ensure that leaders remain accountable to the people they serve.
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I love Newark’s infrastructure, including its transportation networks, and we are inspired by our rich history of innovation, arts, and activism. Most of all, I admire the resilience and authenticity of our people, who continue to push Newark forward despite the challenges they face. Although it feels like we’ve faced some of our toughest moments, I believe this is our opportunity to rise stronger and move forward together.
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I’ve created an initiative called MESA (Mentoring, Education, Sports, Arts) to inspire the youth of Newark and equip them with the skills they need to succeed. The goal of MESA is to provide young people with the tools to go out in the world, learn, and then bring their knowledge and experience back to uplift our city. Through Mentoring, they will connect with role models who guide them on their journey. Education will empower them with the critical skills necessary for academic and career success. Sports will teach discipline, teamwork, and provide physical outlets, while Arts will nurture their creativity and self-expression. MESA is designed to inspire the youth to not only achieve great things but to reinvest in Newark, ensuring a brighter future for themselves and their community.
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To create more low-income housing, I plan to advocate for cooperative housing models that allow residents’ rent payments to contribute toward community ownership of their units. This approach not only provides affordable housing but also empowers residents to build equity and have a stake in their living spaces. Cooperative housing has been successful in countries around the world, and it’s time we bring this innovative solution to Newark. By working with local developers, nonprofits, and financial institutions, we can establish co-ops that keep housing affordable, strengthen communities, and ensure long-time residents can remain in Newark.
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I will rely on both qualitative and quantitative data, ensuring decisions are informed by facts. I also prioritize inclusivity by listening to as many perspectives to come to the most sensible decisions.
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I have plans to make the Newark the amateur sports hub of the world. By leveraging our existing infrastructure, like swimming pools, stadiums, and parks, we can attract regional, national, and even international sports events. This would not only bring in visitors and boost local businesses, but also create job opportunities and showcase Newark as a center for youth sports.
On top of that, we can offer programs that help local residents find jobs in sports, hospitality, and event management, further strengthening our economy. Making Newark a sports hub will drive growth while creating new opportunities for residents.
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Success means creating more jobs, improving overall wellness, and ensuring residents are safe, healthy, and thriving.
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My vision is to make Newark one of the most visited and desirable cities in the world. Newark has to become a place where people come to experience our vibrant culture, economic opportunities, and rich history, while residents enjoy a high quality of life in a thriving city.