PATERSON: Hispanic Candidates’ Loss in School Board Election Disappoints Latino Community

3-minute read

On the morning of Election Day, some Hispanic civic leaders in Paterson were optimistic about the school board race, seeing it as a potential turning point for the Latino community. However, the election ended in disappointment for Latinos, who make up over 60% of the city’s population.

In a field of nine candidates, the three strong Hispanic candidates fell short and currently stand fifth, seventh, and eighth in the voting. It appears that the number of Latinos on the Board of Education will drop to three, representing one-third of the positions.

This outcome has sparked discussions about voter apathy within the Latino community. Many believe that cultural factors, specifically a focus on nationwide elections in their home countries, contribute to the lack of engagement in local elections. Several community leaders have expressed their disappointment and are calling for increased political participation among Latinos.

The election saw a coalition formed between two Latino candidates and a Bangladeshi candidate. While there are questions about the reciprocity of the alliance, campaign strategists believe that it benefited the coalition in Paterson’s heavily Latino 5th Ward.

Despite the disappointment, there is hope that one day the Latino community will match the political engagement of Paterson’s Black and Bengali residents. Efforts are underway to analyze the election results and understand the factors contributing to the low Latino voter turnout.

Election officials are expected to complete vote counting on November 17, and some candidates are considering a recount.