Rosie Pino wins Republican primary in New Jersey's 9th District

Clifton City councilwoman Rosie Pino won the Republican primary in New Jersey's 9th Congressional District, The Associated Press reported Friday, setting up a general election race against Democratic Rep. Nellie Pou.

Pino defeated attorney Tiffany Burress in the GOP contest after the district's primary election concluded on June 2. AP called the race on June 12, confirming Pino as the Republican nominee.

General Election Matchup

Pino will now face Pou, who is seeking reelection in a district that has long leaned Democratic but drew more attention after the 2024 election tightened there. Pou won the seat after the death of longtime Democratic Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. in 2024 and is seeking her second term in the House.

The race is likely to remain one of the more closely watched House contests in New Jersey as Republicans look for pickup opportunities in a district they see as more competitive than in past cycles.

Pino's Campaign

Pino has described herself as a former Democrat who left the party for the GOP. Her campaign has emphasized voter ID requirements and tighter limits on late mail-in voting, part of a broader election-integrity message.

Her campaign site identifies her as a Clifton City councilwoman, educator, cancer survivor, mom and wife.

Burress thanked supporters after the race but did not endorse Pino.

Pou's Campaign

Pou's campaign is centered on affordability, health care, community safety and veterans benefits. Her campaign site says she is seeking reelection on that platform as she heads into the fall contest.

The June 12 AP call makes Pino the Republican nominee in a district that will now become part of the broader battle for control of the U.S. House in November.

What Comes Next

The general election campaign between Pino and Pou will continue toward November 2026, with both sides expected to frame the contest around the district's shifting politics and the national House landscape.