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Jeff Brooks, MPA

@thejeffbrooks

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Council President - Rahway ,NJ
Union County NJ
XI.XII.MMXVI🖤

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Tomorrow is Election Day, but today I want to take a moment to recognize someone far more important than politics. My wife.
One of the most rewarding and humbling aspects of public service is knowing there are people who believe in you and trust in your ability to help them. They share their stories, their struggles, and their vulnerabilities with you. Sometimes, if the circumstances align, you’re able to help provide a solution quickly. Other times, solutions take longer and require patience. Some people understand that process, while others understandably grow frustrated waiting for results. Through all of it, the opportunity to serve remains a privilege.
What people don’t always see are the quiet moments. The moments when you wonder if your efforts will ever be enough. The moments when the weight of serving others settles in and you carry those feelings in silence. The moments when criticism from those you’re working for hits harder than you’d ever let on, and you still have to show up the next day with a smile on your face and a willingness to help. What people don’t always see is the people behind the scenes who help carry that weight.

My wife keeps me grounded. She lifts me up when I’m discouraged, reminds me who I am when I forget, and never lets me lose sight of why I serve in the first place. She has been my sounding board, my safe place, along with my mother has been my biggest supporter, and the person who has stood beside me through some of the most difficult battles of my life not related to public service.
She may not attend every political event or meeting, but she provides the fuel that allows me to keep showing up for others. She understands that service often means sacrificing time that could otherwise be spent together, and she has always supported my purpose, even when that sacrifice isn’t easy. I am blessed that she chose me.

So I want to recognize the spouses and families of everyone on our team. They don’t ask to be part of campaigns, yet they often find themselves caught in the crosshairs. Through it all, they handle it with grace.
To my wife. Thank you. I appreciate you.I love you more than I can express. Much Love to all the spouses! taken in Rahway, New Jersey by @thejeffbrooks

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5 months ago

After 36 years of blood, sweat, and a lot of tears, my father, Wayne Akbar Pray, is finally free. For those who know me, you know I’ve been working on my biological father’s freedom for over 20 years. Today, I’m taking it all in—this is truly the hardest I’ve ever worked for anything in my life.

I’m deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to his freedom along the way. Special thanks to my many siblings, our brilliant attorneys, Isaac Wright Jr. and Peter Goldberger, my cousin Jeff Billingsley, Thomas Freeman, Allyson Zayas, the late, great Congressman Donald Payne Jr., Former Governor Jim McGreevey, the late Kenneth Gibson, Millie Harris, Toni Johnson, Jack Donson, and so many more who supported us on this journey.

I’m excited to see what the future holds for him and for us. I know, without a doubt, that God is real, and that persistence breaks resistance. Thank you to everyone who helped make this day possible. #AkbarPrayFree by @thejeffbrooks

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2 years ago

It was an immense honor to find myself in our nation’s capital, Washington DC today, engaging in a profoundly constructive meeting with the distinguished Congressman Donald Payne Jr of New Jersey @repdonaldpaynejr. As Rahway’s representative until the recent redistricting, this encounter held particular significance. Stay tuned as I provide details of the trip!

This afternoon served as a testament to Congressman Payne’s unwavering dedication as a fervent champion and advocate for his constituents. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of those he represents left an indelible impression. With every word and action, Congressman Payne demonstrated a passion for public service, truly embodying the epitome of a consummate leader and continuing the legacy of his Father Donald Payne Sr.

I am profoundly grateful for the warmth and generosity extended to me by Congressman Payne and his staff. His exemplary hospitality showcased the genuine kindness and grace that lie at the core of his character. Thank you again.

#RahwayAllDay #Rahway #NJ #expungements #SocialJustice #Newark taken in Capitol Hill - Washington, DC by @thejeffbrooks

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3 years ago

If you love the direction our city is heading and want to be part of the momentum that keeps Rahway moving forward, I’m asking for your support on November 3rd.

🗳️ Vote Column A — support our entire team!

Early voting runs October 26 through November 1 at the Rahway Recreation Center.

Every vote matters. Every voice matters. Please make your voice heard and help us Keep Rahway Moving Forward!

Vote Column A on November 3rd! taken in Rahway, New Jersey by @thejeffbrooks

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7 days ago

On November 3rd, Vote Column A all the way!

Keep Rahway Moving Forward! taken in Rahway, New Jersey by @thejeffbrooks

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9 days ago

Wonderful to join the community at Agape Family Worship Center for Church this morning! Pastor Powell gave a moving sermon about slowing down and appreciating the little things.

It was also meaningful to share how my faith has guided my life and how I am working to instill the values of service and kindness in my daughters.

Thank you to Pastor Powell, Mayor Giacobbe, and Councilman Jeff Brooks and the entire congregation for the warm welcome! taken in Rahway, New Jersey by @thejeffbrooks

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12 days ago

This morning, I had the pleasure of worshiping at Agape Family Worship Center under the leadership of Dr. Lawrence Powell. Agape’s warmth, generosity, and hospitality always make you feel at home, and today was no exception.

I was honored to introduce Mayor Raymond Giacobbe, who presented a proclamation on behalf of himself and the Rahway City Council celebrating 25 years at Agape Pointe and recognizing Agape’s incredible service to our community. Our churches help nourish people spiritually, meet real needs, and remind us that we belong to one another. That work deserves both recognition and support.

The Mayor and I also had the pleasure of introducing congressional candidate Rebecca Bennett, who made time to join us in Rahway, worship alongside us, and connect with our community. We believe Rebecca understands the importance of strong local institutions and the need for representatives who support them. Her presence this morning offered a preview of the kind of representative I believe she would be: someone who shows up, listens, and stays engaged.

I want to personally thank Rebecca Bennett for prioritizing our community and once again “showing up.” Her willingness to be present, connect with residents, and support the institutions that strengthen Rahway speaks volumes. We need leaders who understand that serving the community begins with being part of it.

Pastor Powell’s message from Psalm 46 brought it all together: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In my own words: sometimes, we need to take a breath, chill, and trust that God is present.

We can be still in our faith while remaining active in our service. Thank you, Pastor Powell and the entire Agape family, for reminding us of both. Congratulations on 25 years at Agape Pointe! 🙏🏽 God Bless! by @thejeffbrooks

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12 days ago

Please join Mayor Ray Giacobbe and our Rahway At-Large City Council team — Council President Jeff Brooks, Councilwoman Joanna Miles, and Council Vice-President Jeremy Mojica — for our General Election Kickoff Fundraiser Wednesday, September 30th!

If you’re proud of the progress we’re making in our great city and believe in the hard work we’re doing together, we’d be honored to have your support.

Together, we’ve accomplished so much, and we’re excited to continue building on that progress and moving Rahway Forward.

We hope you’ll join us next Wednesday and show your support for our team!

One Rahway. One Team. Moving Rahway Forward.

📅 Wednesday, September 30, 2026
🕕 6:00 PM–9:00 PM
📍 La Esquina Social
1467 Main Street, Rahway

Admission: $100
Union County Democratic Committee and Rahway Democratic Committee members: $50
Seniors: $25

Contributions will be accepted at the door.

RSVP: RahwayDemocraticCommittee@gmail.com
Host sponsorship information: Call/text 732-735-7050 by @thejeffbrooks

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23 days ago

Today, I had the privilege of presenting the Mayor’s proclamation honoring Ebenezer AME Church’s 200th anniversary. On behalf of Mayor Raymond Giacobbe, the Rahway City Council, and myself, thank you to Reverend Dr. Marti Robinson, Esq., and the entire Ebenezer family for the gracious invitation to share in this historic occasion.

Ebenezer AME Church is one of the oldest African American churches in the nation and the oldest in Union County. Its history reaches back to 30 free people of color who purchased land for worship and community life. Their courage, faith, and vision established a foundation that has endured for two centuries.

This congregation has remained steadfast through slavery, segregation, exclusion, and the long struggle for racial justice and equal rights. Ebenezer has continued to be a place to worship, find dignity, organize, serve, and believe in a better future.

The church’s history is part of Rahway’s history. Through its ministry and leadership, Ebenezer has shown that faith is expressed through service, advocacy, compassion, and a commitment to the dignity of every person.

Thank you, my friend, Reverend Dr. Marti Robinson, Esq., for your leadership; not only in the church, but throughout the City of Rahway. Rahway is grateful for Ebenezer’s enduring presence and service.

We honor those who carried this congregation through its first two centuries and those preparing it for the next.

Happy 200th anniversary, Ebenezer AME Church. To God be the glory. taken in Ebenezer AME Church Rahway by @thejeffbrooks

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a month ago

RAHWAY IS ALOT LIKE YONKERS -STYLES P “JUICES FOR LIFE IS MIGHT BE COMING TO RAHWAY NJ 😳😳”

MY BROTHER MAYOR RAYMOND GIACOBBE OF THE GREAT CITY OF RAHWAY NJ COMES BACK ON THE POD TO TALK ABOUT EXPANSION IN RAHWAY NJ INCLUDING A POSSIBLE COLLABORATION WITH STYLES P OF THE LEGENDARY LOX RAP GROUP THAT WILL BRING HEALTHY JUICES TO RAHWAY NJ 👏👏👏 UNDERSTANDING HEALTH IN THE COMMUNITY IS THE FIRST STEP TO A POSITIVE LIFESTYLE AND HAVING JUICES FOR LIFE POTENTIALLY IN RAHWAY WILL BE A GAME CHANGER TO THEIR RESIDENTS 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

***FULL EPISODE LIVE NOW LINK IN BIO TO SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN *** 🎧 🎧🎧

#podcast #viralreels #artistsoninstagram #motivation #viral by @thejeffbrooks

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a month ago

It’s been real, Rahway. ❤️

For the past eight years, this city has been more than just where I lived—it became my home. Thank you for eight unforgettable years filled with love, art, laughter, growth, and even a few tears. The memories and relationships I’ve made here will stay with me forever, and Rahway will always hold a special place in my heart.

A special thank-you to @MayorRay for everything you have done—and continue to do—for this incredible city. Thank you as well to @JeffBrooks for your continued leadership, dedication, and commitment to the Rahway community.

Although I’ll miss calling Rahway home, I promise I won’t be a stranger. I’ll continue supporting the people and initiatives working to strengthen and improve this community.

This isn’t goodbye—it’s simply “see you later.”

#RahwayAllDay #RahwayStrong taken in Downtown Rahway, Rahway by @thejeffbrooks

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a month ago

We had a great time connecting with fellow business owners, entrepreneurs and community leaders at the Union County Means Business Expo!

Our Social Vibes Marketing team was proud to be part of an event that brought together so many businesses from across Union County to network, build relationships and showcase the work they are doing in the community.

In this video, Business Development Coordinator Jeff Brooks shares more about the event and highlights some of the businesses that were in attendance.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to meet so many great people, make new connections and continue building relationships with businesses throughout Union County.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to connect with the Social Vibes team!

#UnionCountyNJ #Networking #SmallBusiness taken in Kean University by @thejeffbrooks

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a month ago