Representative Vincent Kearney

Vincent Kearney is a member of the Democratic Party and currently serves in the New Jersey General Assembly, representing District 21. He assumed office on January 13, 2026, and his current term will conclude on January 11, 2028.

Kearney won his seat in the general election held on November 4, 2025, succeeding Michele Matsikoudis and Nancy Munoz, and his victory marked a significant shift in the district’s political landscape as he flipped the seat from Republican to Democratic control.

Raised in Union Township, Union County, New Jersey, Kearney graduated from Oratory Preparatory School before pursuing training at the John H. Stamler Police Academy in Union County, where he prepared for a career in law enforcement. His professional background includes service as an officer with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, as well as work as an emergency dispatcher and police academy instructor. Kearney’s career in law enforcement provided him with firsthand experience in public safety and community service, shaping his perspective on issues of justice, accountability, and civic responsibility.

Before entering the state legislature, Kearney served on the Garwood Borough Council, where he gained valuable experience in local governance. His election to the council came after he successfully flipped a Republican-held seat, demonstrating his ability to connect with voters and address community concerns. His tenure in municipal government allowed him to focus on issues such as public safety, infrastructure, and inclusivity, laying the groundwork for his broader legislative agenda at the state level.

Kearney’s political priorities emphasize fairness, transparency, and community engagement. He has consistently advocated for policies that strengthen public safety, support working families, and promote equality. His background in law enforcement has informed his commitment to ensuring that government institutions remain accountable to the people they serve. Additionally, his work in local government has reinforced his belief in the importance of grassroots involvement and responsive leadership.

His election to the New Jersey General Assembly underscores the growing diversity of representation in the state legislature and highlights his ability to bring practical experience and community-centered values to policymaking. Representing District 21, which includes parts of Union, Somerset, and Morris counties, Kearney has focused on addressing the needs of suburban communities while ensuring that state policies reflect the realities of everyday residents. His current term through 2028 provides him with the opportunity to further advance his priorities and strengthen his role as a legislator dedicated to public service.

Kearney’s trajectory from law enforcement officer to borough council member and now Assemblyman illustrates a career built on civic duty and a commitment to improving the lives of his constituents. His work reflects a dedication to building safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities, and his role in the General Assembly positions him as a leader with both practical experience and a vision for a more equitable New Jersey.