Our Bureau
Edison, NJ
Edison Mayor Sam Joshi secured a decisive re-election victory on Tuesday (November 4), achieving the township’s largest margin of success in more than three decades. Since first announcing his candidacy four years ago, Joshi has championed a philosophy of “good governance over politics,” prioritizing residents’ needs above partisan agendas. In his first term, Joshi held 466 community meetings and spearheaded numerous local improvements, efforts that resonated strongly with Edison voters.
In a municipality historically defined by sharp political divisions and close elections, Joshi’s commanding win signaled a rare moment of unity—bringing together Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike. “Edison residents spoke loud and clear about my approach,” Joshi said on Tuesday following his victory. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as your mayor for another four years.”
When Sam Joshi was first elected in 2021, he made history as the youngest and first Indian-American mayor of Edison, a milestone that reflected the growing political influence of Indian-Americans in New Jersey. His rise from local councilman to mayor marked a generational shift in Edison’s leadership—one that blended traditional community engagement with an inclusive vision for governance. His campaign four years ago had emphasized transparency, technology-driven administration, and fiscal responsibility, themes that he has continued to deliver on during his first term.
Joshi’s victory carried deep symbolic importance for the Indian-American community not just in Edison, but across the country. As one of the most diverse townships in New Jersey—where Indian-Americans now make up nearly half the population—Edison has long been seen as a bellwether for immigrant representation in American politics.
Joshi’s re-election reaffirms that representation can translate into results. Joshi’s success has inspired a new generation of Indian-American leaders to participate in local government and strengthen the community’s role in local politics.
