Jay Vaingankar, a former official with the U.S. Department of Energy under the Biden administration, has officially entered the race for the U.S. House of Representatives from New Jersey. At just 27 years old, he has the potential to become both the first Gen Z member and the first South Asian American to represent the state in Congress.
Vaingankar is seeking to fill the seat in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District, which includes Princeton and Trenton. The seat is opening up after longtime Democratic Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman announced last month that she will retire at the end of her term. In his announcement, Vaingankar praised the congresswoman’s groundbreaking career and her decades of service.
“Congresswoman Watson Coleman shattered barriers, and Central Jersey owes her immense gratitude,” Vaingankar said in a statement. “I’m running to advance her progressive legacy and carry forward a vision for the next generation. This moment demands new energy to stand up to the Trump Administration and address the growing affordability crisis.”
While Vaingankar is entering a crowded primary, many of his opponents have deeper roots in local elected office. He argues that his background in federal policymaking gives him an edge. Speaking to the New Jersey Globe, he said his experience in Washington equips him to understand complex national issues in ways local leaders may not. He believes voters are looking for a new perspective rather than another career politician. “People want something different. They want a fresh voice,” he said.
Vaingankar currently works in the solar energy industry and has previously focused on climate policy. Born in Mercer County, he served in the Biden administration before being appointed to the Department of Energy, where he worked on climate initiatives and clean-energy programs. His professional background is a central part of his campaign message, especially with climate action and energy affordability ranking high among young voters.
The race for the 12th District is shaping up to be competitive. Other Democratic candidates include Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson of Trenton, Somerset County Commissioner Shanel Robinson, East Windsor Mayor Brad Cohen, Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp, and former West Windsor mayoral candidate Sujit Singh.
Vaingankar’s campaign aims to blend generational change with policy experience, positioning him as a youthful yet seasoned contender in one of New Jersey’s most watched races.
