Isaias J. Rivera Makes History, Elected Elizabeth’s First Ecuadorian Councilman in Decisive Second Ward Victory
Rivera Wins More Than 79% of the Vote in Decisive Second Ward Victory, Ushering in the Ward’s
First New Leadership in Over Two Decades
Elizabeth, NJ – November 4, 2026 – Manuela Gaviria – Roldán
Isaias J. Rivera has won the 2026 General Election for Elizabeth City Council’s Second Ward, marking a historic milestone for the city and ushering in a new era of leadership for the neighborhood he has proudly called home throughout his life. With this victory, Rivera became the first Ecuadorian elected to Elizabeth City Council, carrying the distinction with immense pride and a deep sense of responsibility to the community he will serve.
Rivera secured a decisive victory, receiving 79.72% of the vote, against Republican candidate Glenn Maldonado, who received 19.78%. His win marks a significant transition for the Second Ward, as residents prepare for new representation following longtime Councilman Nelson Gonzalez’s decision not to seek re-election after more than two decades of service.
“This victory means so much to me because the Second Ward is where I grew up, where my family built a life, and where I first developed the desire to give back to the community that gave us so much,” said Isaias J. Rivera. “Making history is an honor I carry with tremendous pride, but I also recognize the responsibility that comes with it. This campaign was built on listening to our neighbors, understanding their concerns, and believing our community deserves leadership that puts residents first. Thank you to everyone who believed in me and stood with us throughout this journey. Now, the real work begins.”
Rivera’s General Election victory follows a competitive four-candidate Democratic Primary, in which he emerged victorious and earned the opportunity to carry his campaign into November. The strong foundation established during the Primary helped translate community support into votes, demonstrating the impact of a campaign rooted in neighborhood engagement, meaningful relationships, and a genuine commitment to the people it seeks to represent.
“Serving the residents of the Second Ward has been one of the greatest honors of my life. This community has given me so much, and I am proud to see someone who grew up here and understands its people step forward to continue that commitment to public service,” said Councilman Nelson Gonzalez. “Isaias has demonstrated a genuine dedication to this neighborhood and a willingness to listen to its residents. I congratulate him on this historic victory and wish him every success as he takes on this important responsibility.
Rivera looks forward to building on the Second Ward’s progress while addressing the priorities that matter most to residents, including economic opportunity, safer neighborhoods, stronger community engagement, and continued investment in Elizabeth’s future.
For Rivera, this victory represents more than an election win. It is the beginning of a new chapter for the Second Ward and a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape him.
For more information about Isaias J. Rivera, visit www.riveraforelizabeth.com.
About Isaias J. Rivera
Rivera, who has served on the Elizabeth Planning Board since 2013 and the Elizabeth Board of Education since 2023, emphasizes that economic prosperity is directly connected to strengthening schools, neighborhoods, and local opportunity. Drawing from his past experience working within the Union County Workforce System and at UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ, where he helped residents secure employment opportunities, Rivera continues today to support job seekers, small businesses, and workforce initiatives throughout Elizabeth. He actively partners with local organizations dedicated to workforce and economic development, including Urban Workforce Advantage and the Elizabeth Development Company (EDC), helping connect residents to career opportunities while equipping local businesses with resources to grow and succeed.
