NEWARK, N.J. — Da'Shone Hughey has officially declared his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in New Jersey's 8th Congressional District, running as an independent with a platform centered on community empowerment, economic opportunity, educational advancement, and restoring trust in government. The announcement was made on June 29, 2026.
Hughey, an entrepreneur, educator, author, and technology innovator, enters the race with a background that spans international experience in leadership, education, and workforce training across Latin America, Africa, and Israel. His campaign, operating under the slogan "We The People," aims to shift the focus from political agendas to measurable results for working families.
"I am running for Congress because I believe government should work for the people it serves," Hughey said. "For too long, too many families have felt unheard, overlooked, and left behind. It is time to restore accountability, create opportunity, and ensure every resident has a voice in shaping our future."
Hughey's platform emphasizes expanding economic opportunity for working families, supporting small business growth and entrepreneurship, strengthening workforce development programs, modernizing education to prepare students for future jobs, investing in innovation and emerging technologies, and increasing government transparency and accountability.
Central to his campaign is the belief that education and workforce development are essential to long-term economic prosperity. His book, "PhD Ready by 18," challenges traditional academic pathways and proposes a framework to accelerate learning, leadership development, entrepreneurship, and career readiness before college completion.
"Every child deserves access to opportunity, every worker deserves the chance to succeed, and every community deserves leadership focused on results," Hughey said. "We must prepare our citizens not only for today's economy, but for the future economy as well."
Hughey's vision includes creating stronger connections between education, workforce training, and employment opportunities, while encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the district. His campaign will engage residents across Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties through community outreach, listening sessions, town halls, and grassroots efforts.
Supporters describe his candidacy as a fresh and forward-thinking approach to public service, combining practical solutions with a long-term vision for growth. Hughey's platform also addresses lowering the cost of living, expanding affordable housing, strengthening transportation, creating high-paying jobs, and advancing education through AI City Robotics Queriosity Learning Centers.
"District 8 is filled with hardworking people, resilient families, and incredible potential," Hughey said. "Together, we can build stronger communities, expand opportunity, and create a future that works for everyone."
The campaign is built on the principle that government belongs to the people. Hughey is calling on residents to join the movement to restore trust and build a stronger future. More information is available at his campaign website: https://www.votedashonehughey.com.
