Brittany Claybrooks

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Brittany Claybrooks completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Claybrooks' responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading-bio-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tBrittany Claybrooks is a dedicated public servant and community advocate with a strong background in urban planning and public policy. She holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Development from New York University and a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management and Administration from Florida A&amp;M University. Her professional experience includes roles in various government and public service institutions, such as the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florida Department of Health, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, and Young Invincibles—a national nonprofit advocating for millennials in areas like higher education, health, and economic development.\r\n<p>Fulop For Governor\r\n</p>\nClaybrooks has served as a Councilwoman in East Orange and as the Director of the Division of Planning for the City of Plainfield. She also worked as the North Jersey Political Director for Congressman Andy Kim during his Senate campaign. Her commitment to public service is deeply rooted in her faith and her upbringing in Detroit, driving her to hold public systems accountable and empower others to do the same. She believes that government has a responsibility to improve people's lives and remains steadfast in her pursuit of that mission.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading-key-message-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Proven Public Service and Policy Experience\r\nWith a strong background in urban planning, public health, and political leadership, Brittany Claybrooks brings real-world experience from local government, state agencies, and congressional campaigns—demonstrating she knows how to navigate complex systems and deliver results for New Jersey residents.</li><li>Champion for Equity and Community Empowerment\r\nBrittany’s career has centered on holding public systems accountable and advocating for underserved communities, especially young people, families, and working-class residents. She believes in government that truly serves its people.</li><li>Vision for Smarter, Fairer Development\r\nAs a city planner and former councilwoman, Brittany understands how policy and development impact everyday life. She’s committed to equitable economic growth, affordable housing, and infrastructure that reflects the needs of all constituents—not just the wealthy or well-connected.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading1-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tHousing and Community Development<br/>\n<p>Brittany Claybrooks is passionate about smart, equitable development—making sure housing, infrastructure, and public spaces serve the needs of all residents, especially marginalized communities.<br/><br/>\r\nHealth Equity and Public Health<br/>\r\nBrittany Claybrooks has a strong foundation in health equity. She is strong advocate for accessible, affordable healthcare that addresses racial disparities and supports mental and physical wellness.<br/><br/>\r\nGovernment Transparency and Accountability<br/>\n</p>\nBrittany Claybrooks is committed to restoring trust in public institutions by increasing transparency, engaging communities in decision-making, and holding leaders accountable for real results!\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading2-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and empathy. Leaders must tell the truth, even when it’s hard, and make decisions based on what’s right—not what’s politically convenient. They must be transparent with the people they serve and take responsibility for the outcomes of their policies. And most importantly, they must lead with empathy—truly listening to the lived experiences of their constituents and understanding how policy affects real people. Public service is not about power—it’s about purpose, and I’m committed to always leading with the community in mind.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading3-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAs a State Assemblymember, I believe the core responsibilities are to advocate, legislate, and remain accountable to the people we serve. That means writing and supporting laws that improve the daily lives of working families, ensuring public resources are allocated equitably, and fighting for communities that have been historically overlooked—especially Black and brown communities. It also means showing up: being present in the district, listening to constituents, and bringing their concerns directly to the State House. Transparency, accessibility, and results—not rhetoric—are what people deserve from their elected officials.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading4-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI want to leave a legacy of impact, integrity, and empowerment. I want people to say that I used my time in public office to make real, measurable change—especially for communities that have been historically ignored or underestimated. Whether it’s through equitable housing, stronger schools, fairer systems, or transparent government, I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t just talk about change, but delivered it.<br/><br/>\r\nBut beyond policy, I want to inspire others—especially young Black women—to know that their voice belongs in every room where decisions are made. My legacy should be a trail of doors opened, systems challenged, and lives improved. That’s why I serve.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading5-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared responsibility to serve the people of New Jersey. While we may not always agree on every issue, both branches must be committed to honest dialogue, transparency, and putting policy over politics. As a legislator, I believe it’s our role to hold the executive branch accountable, but also to work in partnership when it means delivering real results—whether that’s expanding housing, improving education, or ensuring public safety. At the end of the day, we are all stewards of the public trust, and the people deserve leaders who can work together to get things done.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading6-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tNew Jersey faces a number of serious challenges in the next decade—but at the core, I believe they center around affordability, equity, and trust in government.<br/><br/>\n<p>We must address the rising cost of living—especially housing, healthcare, and education—which is forcing too many families, particularly in Black and working-class communities, to struggle or leave the state entirely. We also need to confront racial and economic inequities embedded in our public systems, from school funding to transportation to environmental justice.<br/><br/>\r\nAnd perhaps most importantly, we need to rebuild public trust by making government more transparent, accessible, and accountable. People need to know their voices matter, that their tax dollars are well-spent, and that their leaders are working for them—not for special interests.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nMeeting these challenges will take bold policy, honest leadership, and a deep commitment to the people—not politics as usual.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading7-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes—but with a caveat. I believe experience in government or politics can be incredibly valuable if it’s grounded in public service, not personal ambition. Understanding how systems work—how policy is shaped, how budgets are built, how to move legislation—is important for getting things done effectively and avoiding the pitfalls that stall progress.<br/><br/>\r\nThat said, experience alone isn’t enough. What matters just as much—if not more—is having a clear connection to the community, lived experience, and a commitment to equity and accountability. We need leaders who know the process and the people. That’s why I bring both: professional experience in government planning and advocacy, and a lifelong mission to serve and uplift those too often left out of the process.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading8-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first bill you would introduce if elected?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe first bill I would introduce would focus on affordable housing and equitable development—specifically a measure to create a statewide fund and technical assistance program to support municipalities in building and preserving affordable housing that prioritizes Black and brown communities historically excluded from wealth-building opportunities.<br/><br/>\n<p>This bill would incentivize mixed-income developments near transit, streamline zoning reform for affordability, and ensure that state investments are tied to equity goals—including local hiring, anti-displacement protections, and community-driven planning.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nAs a city planning professional and public servant, I’ve seen how housing policy shapes everything from health to education to economic opportunity. If we want to build a stronger New Jersey, we have to start by making sure people can afford to live here with dignity and stability.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading9-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat committees interest you?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tHousing Committee. <br/>\n<p>Health Committee, <br/>\r\nEducation Committee, <br/>\n</p>\nOversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading10-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe financial transparency and government accountability are the cornerstones of a healthy democracy. Taxpayers deserve to know how their money is being spent and whether it’s truly benefiting their communities. That means clear reporting, public access to information, and strong oversight of how funds are allocated—especially in areas like housing, education, and economic development. As someone who has worked inside government, I’ve seen how critical it is for leaders to be honest stewards of public resources. I will always fight to make government more transparent, more accessible, and more accountable to the people it serves.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-309352-2025-05-13\" id=\"heading11-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-309352-2025-05-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWould a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-309352-2025-05-13\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-309352-2025-05-13\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tA ballot initiative process could be a powerful tool for direct democracy—giving residents more say in shaping the laws that govern them. In theory, it promotes civic engagement and empowers voters to take action when they feel their elected officials are not responding. However, it also carries risks—especially when well-funded special interests can dominate campaigns and oversimplify complex policy decisions through emotional or misleading ballot language.<br/><br/>\r\nIf New Jersey were to adopt such a process, it would need strong safeguards: transparency, public education, and equity in access to the process. Ultimately, I support any reform that brings people closer to power—but only if it’s done thoughtfully and protects the voices of everyday residents, not just those with the biggest platform.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>Brittany Claybrooks did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nBrittany Claybrooks completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Claybrooks' responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Brittany Claybrooks is a dedicated public servant and community advocate with a strong background in urban planning and public policy. She holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Development from New York University and a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management and Administration from Florida A&M University. Her professional experience includes roles in various government and public service institutions, such as the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florida Department of Health, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, and Young Invincibles—a national nonprofit advocating for millennials in areas like higher education, health, and economic development. Fulop For Governor Claybrooks has served as a Councilwoman in East Orange and as the Director of the Division of Planning for the City of Plainfield. She also worked as the North Jersey Political Director for Congressman Andy Kim during his Senate campaign. Her commitment to public service is deeply rooted in her faith and her upbringing in Detroit, driving her to hold public systems accountable and empower others to do the same. She believes that government has a responsibility to improve people's lives and remains steadfast in her pursuit of that mission. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Proven Public Service and Policy Experience\r\nWith a strong background in urban planning, public health, and political leadership, Brittany Claybrooks brings real-world experience from local government, state agencies, and congressional campaigns—demonstrating she knows how to navigate complex systems and deliver results for New Jersey residents. Champion for Equity and Community Empowerment\r\nBrittany’s career has centered on holding public systems accountable and advocating for underserved communities, especially young people, families, and working-class residents. She believes in government that truly serves its people. Vision for Smarter, Fairer Development\r\nAs a city planner and former councilwoman, Brittany understands how policy and development impact everyday life. She’s committed to equitable economic growth, affordable housing, and infrastructure that reflects the needs of all constituents—not just the wealthy or well-connected. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Housing and Community Development Brittany Claybrooks is passionate about smart, equitable development—making sure housing, infrastructure, and public spaces serve the needs of all residents, especially marginalized communities. Health Equity and Public Health Brittany Claybrooks has a strong foundation in health equity. She is strong advocate for accessible, affordable healthcare that addresses racial disparities and supports mental and physical wellness. Government Transparency and Accountability Brittany Claybrooks is committed to restoring trust in public institutions by increasing transparency, engaging communities in decision-making, and holding leaders accountable for real results! What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and empathy. Leaders must tell the truth, even when it’s hard, and make decisions based on what’s right—not what’s politically convenient. They must be transparent with the people they serve and take responsibility for the outcomes of their policies. And most importantly, they must lead with empathy—truly listening to the lived experiences of their constituents and understanding how policy affects real people. Public service is not about power—it’s about purpose, and I’m committed to always leading with the community in mind. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? As a State Assemblymember, I believe the core responsibilities are to advocate, legislate, and remain accountable to the people we serve. That means writing and supporting laws that improve the daily lives of working families, ensuring public resources are allocated equitably, and fighting for communities that have been historically overlooked—especially Black and brown communities. It also means showing up: being present in the district, listening to constituents, and bringing their concerns directly to the State House. Transparency, accessibility, and results—not rhetoric—are what people deserve from their elected officials. What legacy would you like to leave? I want to leave a legacy of impact, integrity, and empowerment. I want people to say that I used my time in public office to make real, measurable change—especially for communities that have been historically ignored or underestimated. Whether it’s through equitable housing, stronger schools, fairer systems, or transparent government, I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t just talk about change, but delivered it. But beyond policy, I want to inspire others—especially young Black women—to know that their voice belongs in every room where decisions are made. My legacy should be a trail of doors opened, systems challenged, and lives improved. That’s why I serve. What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature? The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared responsibility to serve the people of New Jersey. While we may not always agree on every issue, both branches must be committed to honest dialogue, transparency, and putting policy over politics. As a legislator, I believe it’s our role to hold the executive branch accountable, but also to work in partnership when it means delivering real results—whether that’s expanding housing, improving education, or ensuring public safety. At the end of the day, we are all stewards of the public trust, and the people deserve leaders who can work together to get things done. What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade? New Jersey faces a number of serious challenges in the next decade—but at the core, I believe they center around affordability, equity, and trust in government. We must address the rising cost of living—especially housing, healthcare, and education—which is forcing too many families, particularly in Black and working-class communities, to struggle or leave the state entirely. We also need to confront racial and economic inequities embedded in our public systems, from school funding to transportation to environmental justice. And perhaps most importantly, we need to rebuild public trust by making government more transparent, accessible, and accountable. People need to know their voices matter, that their tax dollars are well-spent, and that their leaders are working for them—not for special interests. Meeting these challenges will take bold policy, honest leadership, and a deep commitment to the people—not politics as usual. Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics? Yes—but with a caveat. I believe experience in government or politics can be incredibly valuable if it’s grounded in public service, not personal ambition. Understanding how systems work—how policy is shaped, how budgets are built, how to move legislation—is important for getting things done effectively and avoiding the pitfalls that stall progress. That said, experience alone isn’t enough. What matters just as much—if not more—is having a clear connection to the community, lived experience, and a commitment to equity and accountability. We need leaders who know the process and the people. That’s why I bring both: professional experience in government planning and advocacy, and a lifelong mission to serve and uplift those too often left out of the process. What is the first bill you would introduce if elected? The first bill I would introduce would focus on affordable housing and equitable development—specifically a measure to create a statewide fund and technical assistance program to support municipalities in building and preserving affordable housing that prioritizes Black and brown communities historically excluded from wealth-building opportunities. This bill would incentivize mixed-income developments near transit, streamline zoning reform for affordability, and ensure that state investments are tied to equity goals—including local hiring, anti-displacement protections, and community-driven planning. As a city planning professional and public servant, I’ve seen how housing policy shapes everything from health to education to economic opportunity. If we want to build a stronger New Jersey, we have to start by making sure people can afford to live here with dignity and stability. What committees interest you? Housing Committee. Health Committee, Education Committee, Oversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? I believe financial transparency and government accountability are the cornerstones of a healthy democracy. Taxpayers deserve to know how their money is being spent and whether it’s truly benefiting their communities. That means clear reporting, public access to information, and strong oversight of how funds are allocated—especially in areas like housing, education, and economic development. As someone who has worked inside government, I’ve seen how critical it is for leaders to be honest stewards of public resources. I will always fight to make government more transparent, more accessible, and more accountable to the people it serves. Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state? A ballot initiative process could be a powerful tool for direct democracy—giving residents more say in shaping the laws that govern them. In theory, it promotes civic engagement and empowers voters to take action when they feel their elected officials are not responding. However, it also carries risks—especially when well-funded special interests can dominate campaigns and oversimplify complex policy decisions through emotional or misleading ballot language. If New Jersey were to adopt such a process, it would need strong safeguards: transparency, public education, and equity in access to the process. Ultimately, I support any reform that brings people closer to power—but only if it’s done thoughtfully and protects the voices of everyday residents, not just those with the biggest platform.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\nBrittany Claybrooks did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey."}]