Joel Griffith Announces Run for Trenton City Council At-Large

 Joel Griffith announced Saturday that he is running for Trenton City Council At-Large, citing his experience in public service, government operations, and community engagement as preparation to serve the city. 

Griffith said he is entering the race to bring greater accountability, transparency, and follow-through to city government. 

“I’ve spent my career working in both the public and private sectors, and I’ve seen firsthand how effective public‑private partnerships can deliver real results when they’re done right,” Griffith said. “I want to bring that experience to Trenton and make sure city government is working smarter, more responsibly, and in partnership with the people it serves.” 

Earlier in his career, Griffith worked in public service at both the federal and local levels. In Washington, D.C., he served U.S. Sen. Roland Burris and later Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, where he supported legislative operations, constituent services, and policy work. In New Jersey, he worked for Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman and held senior roles on local campaigns, including serving as digital director for Eric Jackson’s campaign for mayor of Trenton and campaign manager for Trenton City Councilman Duncan Harrison. 

Griffith also worked at the New York City Department of Small Business Services in the Neighborhood Development Division under Mayor Michael Bloomberg. As a business improvement manager, he worked with Business Improvement Districts across New York City, supporting public-private partnerships focused on strengthening neighborhood commercial corridors. His work included monitoring operating budgets, reviewing financial reports, ensuring compliance with city funding requirements, and coordinating with nonprofit and business leaders. 

In addition to his public service work, Griffith is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Bot-It, an AI-driven automation platform. In 2023, he appeared on Shark Tank, where he received an investment offer from Mark Cuban and Michael Rubin. 

Since returning to Trenton, Griffith has remained active in the community, helping modernize the Trenton Municipal Democratic Committee’s digital presence, organizing volunteer canvassing efforts, and working with neighborhood groups across the city. More information about the campaign is available at www.griffithfortrenton.com.