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Balvir Singh becomes New Jersey’s first Sikh legislator
Born in a small village in India’s Punjab, he moved to the United States with his family and attended Burlington City High School.
Singh’s swearing-in marks a significant moment as he becomes the first Sikh to serve in the New Jersey Legislature. / X
New Jersey’s Legislative Assembly welcomed a historic milestone on Jan.30 as Balvir Singh, an Indian-origin public school educator and mathematician by training, took the oath of office. Sworn in by Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin, Singh now represents the 7th Legislative District in Burlington County, alongside Assemblywoman Carol Murphy.
Singh’s swearing-in marks a significant moment as he becomes the first Sikh to serve in the New Jersey Legislature. A longtime advocate for education, economic opportunity, and equitable access to essential services, Singh emphasized his commitment to building a better future for all New Jersey residents.
JUST ANNOUNCED: Balvir Singh has been sworn into the NJ General Assembly, representing the 7th District alongside @AswCarolMurphy. Welcome, Assemblyman @BalvirSinghNJ! Learn more here: https://t.co/24FCPccKKu pic.twitter.com/zC6YM6quy9
— NJ Assembly Democrats (@njassemblydems) January 30, 2025
Singh’s story is deeply rooted in his immigrant experience. Born in a small village in Punjab, India, he moved to the United States with his family and attended Burlington City High School. He later earned degrees in mathematics from The College of New Jersey and Rutgers University, along with a supervisory certificate from Rowan University.
“Balvir is a stellar example of dedication to both community and state, and we are fortunate to welcome him into the General Assembly,” said Speaker Coughlin (D-Middlesex). “His background in education and public service, combined with his strong commitment to improving lives, will undoubtedly make him a powerful advocate for his constituents and a key voice in the Caucus moving forward.”
Singh’s journey to the Assembly has been shaped by years of public service. He previously served on the Burlington Township Board of Education (2015-2017) before being elected to the Burlington County Board of Commissioners. During his tenure as a county commissioner, he played a key role in expanding affordable housing, boosting economic development, and strengthening public health initiatives. His efforts included securing over $13 million in rental assistance, launching zero-interest loans for businesses, and supporting the construction of a 60-bed emergency shelter for the county’s most vulnerable residents.
“I will remain committed to ensuring the voices of everyday people in Burlington County and across New Jersey are heard in Trenton,” said Singh (D-Burlington). “I am excited to work alongside my new partners in the Legislature as we continue to build on efforts to make New Jersey a more equitable and prosperous place for all residents.”
United Sikhs congratulate Singh
Singh’s election has been met with celebration, particularly within the Sikh community. United Sikhs, a UN-affiliated global NGO, congratulated him on this historic achievement.
"Congratulations to Assemblyman @BalvirSinghNJ (Balvir Singh), the first Sikh legislator in New Jersey state history! Your groundbreaking election represents a powerful milestone for representation and inclusion. As a champion of education, economic opportunity, and equitable access, you embody the spirit of community service and progress," the organization stated.
Congratulations to Assemblyman @BalvirSinghNJ (Balvir Singh), the first Sikh legislator in New Jersey state history!
— UNITED SIKHS (@unitedsikhs) February 6, 2025
Your groundbreaking election represents a powerful milestone for representation and inclusion. As a champion of education, economic opportunity, and equitable… pic.twitter.com/O8pocHrqHY
With nearly two decades of experience as a public-school educator, Singh brings a unique perspective to policymaking. Outside of his professional life, he remains actively engaged in the community, enjoys playing soccer, and is an avid Philadelphia sports fan.
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