Da'Shone Hughey has officially announced his candidacy for the United States House of Representatives in New Jersey's 8th Congressional District, running as an independent under the slogan "We The People." The campaign is centered on community empowerment, economic opportunity, educational advancement, and restoring trust in government.
Hughey, an entrepreneur, educator, author, and technology innovator, brings international experience in leadership, education, and workforce training, having worked in Latin America, Africa, and Israel. His background includes addressing workforce displacement, educational inequity, AI readiness, and expanding access to economic opportunity.
"I am running for Congress because I believe government should work for the people it serves," said Hughey. "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."
His platform emphasizes expanding economic opportunity for working families, supporting small business growth, strengthening workforce development programs, modernizing education, investing in innovation and technology, and increasing government transparency. At the center of his campaign is the belief that education and workforce development are essential to long-term economic prosperity.
Hughey's book, PhD Ready by 18, challenges traditional academic pathways and presents a framework to accelerate learning, leadership development, entrepreneurship, and career readiness. "Every child deserves access to opportunity, every worker deserves the chance to succeed, and every community deserves leadership focused on results," Hughey said.
His vision includes creating stronger connections between education, workforce training, and employment opportunities, while encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and community investment throughout the district. The campaign will focus on engaging residents across Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties through community outreach, listening sessions, town halls, and grassroots efforts.
"Our campaign is built on a simple principle: We The People. The Government belongs to the people, and together we can ensure it works for the people once again," Hughey said. His platform also includes lowering the cost of living, expanding affordable housing, strengthening transportation, creating high-paying jobs, and advancing education through AI City Robotics Queriosity Learning Centers.
Supporters describe his candidacy as a fresh and forward-thinking approach to public service, combining practical solutions with a long-term vision for growth. For more information about the campaign, visit votedashonehughey.com.
