(TRENTON) – Eliana Pintor Marin became the newest member of the New Jersey General Assembly on Monday, after being sworn in by Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver during a midday ceremony. Pintor Marin will represent the 29th district, which includes Belleville and Newark.
“I’m happy to welcome Eliana to the New Jersey Legislature,” said Speaker Oliver (D-Essex/Passaic). “She has been an advocate for children in Newark and has made education a priority through her work in the district. I’m certain her advocacy in the community will translate well to the Legislature, which will benefit not just Essex County residents, but all New Jersey residents.”
Pintor Marin was elected to the seat vacated by Albert Coutinho who resigned in September. She joins Assemblywoman L. Grace Spencer (D-Essex) in representing the 29th legislative district.
“I could not be more thankful for the opportunity to serve my state and particularly my hometown, the place where I grew up and the place where my parents migrated to looking for a better life,” said Pintor Marin. “I hope to be an example for others that with drive and determination, anything is possible. I know I have big shoes to fill, but I’m prepared to work with my fellow members to make this state a better place for residents of this and every other community in New Jersey.”
Pintor Marin was born and raised in Newark’s East Ward, the youngest child of two factory workers who immigrated to the United States from Portugal in search for better opportunities for themselves and their children. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in legal studies and a Master of Arts degree in government and politics from St. John’s University. Pintor Marin worked for a Brazilian investment bank in New York City before joining the Essex County Clerk’s Office in Newark. In 2008, Marin was elected to the Newark Public Schools Advisory Board, where she served as the financial chair for three years. Pintor Marin received the Star of Essex award earlier this year for her contributions to the history of New Jersey and dedication to youth, especially in Essex County.
“I was the first person in my family to graduate from college, which is something I’m equally humbled by and proud of. I sincerely believe education can make all the difference in the life of a child,” said Pintor Marin. “As I begin my tenure in the Assembly, I will work to ensure that all children have access to a quality education, that we create economic opportunities and enhance public safety in order to improve the quality of life for residents in my district and statewide.”