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.

Recovery for All: Excluded New Jerseyans Fund Falls Short of Need

Even before it was cut, the Excluded New Jerseyans Fund was never funded enough to reach New Jerseyans excluded from COVID-19 relief.

Hard Working New Jerseyans Get a Raise January 1

Scheduled minimum wage increase to $13 takes effect on January 1.

We the People: Why New Jersey Needs to Expand Democracy

As New Jersey's population grows more diverse, a stronger democracy is needed so elected leaders truly represent their constituents.

Big Money in Politics Shuts Voters Out of the Political Process

New Jersey's major political leadership campaign committees have spent more money in 2021 than in any of the last 14 years.

Shining a Light on New Jersey’s FY 2022 Budget

New Jersey's latest budget meets the immediate needs of the pandemic recovery, pays off debt, and invests in key public assets.

Introducing the State of Opportunity Index

The new State of Opportunity Index provides a clearer idea of the challenges we face and where they manifest.

New Jersey’s Minimum Wage Rises to $12 on January 1

New Year’s will bring some relief to New Jersey’s lowest paid workers.

Unemployment Claims Rise as Federal Relief Expires

If federal relief is not extended, it will be much harder for families to meet their basic needs.

COVID-19 Unemployment Claims Will Soon Surpass Total Claims from the Great Recession

COVID-19 has caused an unprecedented spike in unemployment insurance claims.

New Jersey Can Make Overtime Pay

The Trump administration's overtime rule leaves far too many workers behind.