Nelida Pou

Incumbent Representative in Congress in Paterson, NJ

Nelida Pou is a candidate for Representative in Congress District 9 in Congressional District 9, New Jersey — 2026 Primary Election.

Also running: Rosie Pino, Tiffany Burress.

Nelida 'Nellie' Pou is the incumbent U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 9th congressional district, having assumed office in 2025. A Democrat, she previously served in the New Jersey Senate from 2012 to 2025, where she was the Majority Caucus Chair, and in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1997 to 2012. Born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Pou spent much of her early career working for the City of Paterson in various roles, including as Business Administrator.