Emil “Yitz” Stern, a longtime community advocate and former deputy mayor of Teaneck, has announced his candidacy for the New Jersey Assembly representing District 37. Known for bringing people together to tackle pressing local issues, Stern aims to expand housing affordability, modernize infrastructure and ensure every student in Bergen County has access to a strong education.
“I’ve spent much of my life working to uplift the people of this district, whether as a local official or through my leadership roles in Bergen County,” said Stern. “We need strong representation in Trenton, someone who understands our communities and knows how to deliver real solutions on housing costs, roads and transportation, and school funding. I’m prepared to take that fight to the state assembly.”
Decades of Leadership and Public Service
Stern’s public service includes serving as deputy mayor and council member in Teaneck, where he championed economic development, managed municipal budgeting, and bridged diverse communities. He has also been a commissioner on the N.J. State Commission on Holocaust Education and the New Jersey-Israel Commission, reflecting his commitment to cultural understanding and civic engagement.
Currently serving as a fiscal officer in the Bergen County Department of Public Safety, Stern oversees a range of fiscal operations for eight divisions, bringing a wealth of administrative and budgeting experience to his legislative platform.
Beyond local government roles, Stern co-founded Cross River Bank, serving on its board of directors and committees for over a decade. He is also a longtime adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University, teaching a range of business and economics courses.
Endorsements From Community Leaders
Local leaders who have worked closely with Stern emphasized his collaborative spirit and track record of delivering results:
Rabbi Daniel Fridman, rabbi of the Jewish Center of Teaneck, said, “Emil ‘Yitz’ Stern is a dedicated public servant with decades of experience, endowed with a rare combination of profound humility, deep faith, unimpeachable integrity and exceptional competence. At a time when the Jewish community faces unprecedented antisemitism, the relationship between New Jersey and Israel is under attack, and our state lags behind many others in providing financial support to families with children in private and parochial schools. Emil ‘Yitz’ Stern is exactly the representative we need in the state assembly.”
Elie Y. Katz, former Teaneck mayor, said, “I’ve seen Emil ‘Yitz’ solve tough challenges by listening to every perspective and finding consensus. He will be a proactive voice for Bergen County families in Trenton.”
Mark (Mendy) Schwartz, Teaneck’s mayor who is also co-publisher of The Jewish Link, said, “Emil ‘Yitz’ brings unmatched expertise in local governance, public safety and economic development. His leadership will help District 37 thrive for years to come.”
Paul Ostrow, former Teaneck mayor, said, “Emil ‘Yitz’ Stern’s decades of service to Teaneck and Bergen County demonstrate a true commitment to community. He has the experience, intelligence and vision we need in the state assembly.”
Bergen County Jewish Action Committee (BCJAC) made the following statement: “Emil ‘Yitz’ Stern is a seasoned public servant with years of experience in advocacy and government. He has been a pillar of the Jewish community, involved in many local causes and charities. We wholeheartedly support his candidacy and know he will represent our district honorably and with the integrity the office deserves.”
A Vision for Strong Representation
Stern’s campaign will focus on:
Housing Affordability: Championing policies that help working families and seniors stay in their communities.
Infrastructure Improvements: Modernizing roads, bridges and public transportation to enhance safety, efficiency and local economies.
Fair Funding for Schools: Fighting for equitable resources so every child has access to a quality education.
“I believe Bergen County can be a place where all residents flourish, and I’m running to ensure our concerns are heard in Trenton,” Stern added. “I look forward to building on my public service experience to deliver practical solutions for District 37.”
Campaign Kickoff Event
Emil “Yitz” Stern’s official campaign kickoff event is set for the end of January (details forthcoming). Community members, local officials and the media are invited to attend and learn more about his vision for District 37.
For more information, or to get involved, contact [email protected].
