Rolando Ramos to Announce Candidacy for Trenton Mayor
Rolando Ramos, a 26-year veteran of the Trenton Police Department and lifelong Trenton resident, will formally announce his candidacy for Mayor of Trenton at a public event on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Encounter Church, located at 998 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08611.
Ramos, who graduated from Trenton Central High School in 1987, has spent his entire career serving the capital city. During his tenure with the Trenton Police Department, he held leadership positions in the Pro-Active Unit, TAC Unit, Warrant Squad, Street Crimes Unit, and Violent Crimes Unit. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant before retiring from the department.
“For too long, Trenton has been stuck in a cycle of broken promises and failed leadership,” Ramos said. “Our residents deserve a mayor who has actually led, who has been held accountable, and who knows how to get things done. I’m running because I believe in Trenton’s potential, and I know we can do better.”
Ramos has been a vocal advocate for Trenton through his “Behind the Badge” column in The Trentonian, where he has addressed issues ranging from public safety and fiscal responsibility to state oversight and the city’s relationship with New Jersey’s government.
His campaign will focus on nine key priorities:
– Public Safety & Crime Reduction – Rebuilding the Trenton Police Department and restoring specialized crime-fighting units
– Ending Poverty & Creating Opportunity – Breaking the cycle of poverty through job creation and economic development
– Fiscal Responsibility & Eliminating State Oversight – Developing a plan to end 13 years of state budget control
– Affordable Housing & Stopping Investor Exploitation – Promoting home ownership and protecting residents from out-of-state landlords
– Basic Services & Infrastructure – Ensuring the city delivers fundamental services like street repairs and garbage collection
– Downtown Revitalization & Economic Development – Attracting real investment and supporting local businesses
– Education & Safe Schools – Creating safe learning environments and improving academic performance
– Accountability & Transparency – Ending corruption and implementing measurable goals
– Restoring Trenton’s Dignity – Making the state capital a source of pride for all New Jersey residents
“Trenton is considered the worst state capital in America. That’s unacceptable,” Ramos added. “We need a leader who will fight for this city, demand respect from the state, and put Trentonians first—not party politics or special interests.”
Ramos is the son of Puerto Rican immigrants who came to Trenton in the 1960s. All five of his siblings graduated from Trenton public schools and became professionals, demonstrating the potential that exists when families have opportunity and support.
The announcement event on February 28th is open to the public. Community members, supporters, and media are invited to attend. For more information about Rolando Ramos and his campaign, visit www.rolandoramosfortrentontriumph.com or follow the campaign on social media.
