Sam Joshi Sworn In for Second Term as Mayor of Edison

Indian-American Democrat Sam Joshi officially began his second term as Mayor of Edison, New Jersey, after being sworn in on January 4 at the Edison Youth Sports Training Complex. The ceremony marked a significant political milestone for the township, reaffirming voter confidence in a leader who has rapidly become one of New Jersey’s most prominent young mayors.

Joshi secured re-election in November 2025 with a decisive victory, defeating Independent challenger David Tingle by a margin of nearly 50 percent. The result underscored the strength of his grassroots support and the broad appeal of his development-driven, community-focused governance.

Alongside Sam Joshi, three members of the Edison Township Council — Councilwoman Kelli Dima, Councilman Robert Kentos, and Councilman Biral Patel — also took their oaths of office, signaling continuity and stability in the township’s leadership.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy publicly congratulated the mayor on social media, praising the administration’s momentum. “Thrilled to witness Edison Mayor Sam Joshi take his oath for a second term,” Murphy wrote on X. “Congratulations to Mayor Joshi and Edison’s three newest councilmembers.”

Sam Joshi: From Local Roots to Historic Leadership

Joshi first made history in 2022 when he became the youngest and first Indian-American mayor of Edison, a township with one of the largest South Asian populations in the United States. The son of immigrants from India, Joshi’s political journey is deeply intertwined with the community he now leads.

Born and raised in Edison, he grew up witnessing the township’s transformation into a diverse suburban hub. That experience shaped a political platform centred on economic development, public safety, infrastructure renewal and inclusive governance — themes that continue to define his second term.

A Record of Governance and Community Investment

During his first term, Sam Joshi focused on stabilising municipal taxes while investing in long-term infrastructure and neighbourhood preservation. His administration expanded support programmes for youth, families, seniors and small businesses, reinforcing Edison’s reputation as a family-friendly township.

One of the most visible achievements under Joshi’s leadership was the revitalisation of all 32 municipal parks, including the launch of Edison’s first-ever Splash Park, a long-awaited recreational addition for local families.

To improve digital access and affordability, the township also secured Comcast/Xfinity as a second internet service provider, increasing competition and strengthening connectivity for residents and businesses alike.

Public safety remained a cornerstone of Joshi’s agenda. He championed a statewide crime law aimed at curbing home invasions and burglaries and reinstated the Fix-It Program, which assists seniors and residents with disabilities by providing essential home repairs.

Sam Joshi: A Lifelong Commitment to Public Service

Before becoming mayor, Joshi served four years on the Edison Township Council, including two years as vice president. His public service experience also includes roles on the Fair Rental Housing Authority, the Edison Zoning Board, and as a 9-1-1 telecommunicator with the Edison Police Department — a role that gave him firsthand insight into emergency response and community safety.

Joshi’s connection to local government began early. At just 14 years old, he interned with Edison Township under former mayors George A. Spadoro and Jun Choi, setting the foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to public service.