Nicole Rodriguez


Nicole Rodriguez, President, is an experienced public policy leader who advocates for equitable solutions that center communities’ needs with racial, social, and economic justice. Before joining New Jersey Policy Perspective as Research Director, Nicole was senior researcher at Community Labor United (CLU) — an organization that brings community and labor partners together to speak in one voice on issues affecting working families throughout Greater Boston. Nicole drove strategic campaigns with rigorous research and leadership that stabilized and strengthened low-paid families and communities of color. Before that, Nicole worked as senior policy analyst for the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, an independent research organization that produces nonpartisan policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations to improve the lives of low- and middle-income residents and strengthen the state’s economy. Nicole wrote numerous reports focusing on family economic security and the state budget. She has also worked for foundations, nonprofits, and state and local governments. She holds a Master of Public Policy from the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Villanova University.

Immigrant Detention Contradicts New Jersey Values and Erodes Public Trust

New detention center contract contradicts New Jersey’s values and threatens the well-being of thousands of residents who contribute to the state's economy, culture, and vitality.

Governor’s Budget Advances Fiscal Responsibility But Structural Problems Remain

Governor Murphy's final budget proposal takes important steps toward fiscal responsibility but falls short of closing the structural deficit.

Federal Funding Cuts Threaten New Jersey’s Residents

Cuts to federal funding for state programs to fund tax breaks for corporations and the ultra-wealthy could harm millions of New Jerseyans.

Murphy’s Words Shine But Shadows Remain

Governor Murphy's State of the State address highlighted significant progress, but left critical issues unaddressed.

New Corporate Transit Fee Sets an Example of How We Can Fund Essential Infrastructure

New Jersey's state budget for Fiscal Year 2025 includes the first-ever dedicated source of funding for NJ Transit.

Corporate Transit Fee Will Help Get NJ Transit Back on Track

Dedicated funding is a historic first that will go a long way toward filling NJ Transit's looming budget deficit.

Dark Day for Transparency and Accountability as Governor Signs Bill Gutting Public Records Law

New changes to OPRA undermine transparency, accountability, and democracy in New Jersey.

Budget Proposal Rightly Asks Big Business To Pay for Critical Infrastructure, But More is Needed

Even with strong commitments to longstanding funding needs, the budget proposal still erodes the state’s surplus to fund basic operations.

Governor’s Stronger and Fairer Economy Can’t Overlook Fiscal Elephant

Governor Murphy's State of the State address highlighted important investments, but overlooked a looming budget shortfall.

All Students Benefit From a Strong and Inclusive Equity Code

Testimony from NJPP President Nicole Rodriguez before the New Jersey Board of Education.