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.

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.

Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver Will Leave a Lasting Legacy

Statement from NJPP President Nicole Rodriguez on the passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver.

New Jersey Budget Deal Gives to the Rich, Mortgages New Jersey’s Future

The $54 billion budget proposal includes big tax cuts for the word's most profitable corporations and the state's wealthiest households.

Rutgers Faculty Deserve to be Respected and Fairly Compensated

NJPP stands in solidarity with Rutgers grads and faculty on strike for the fair compensation, job security, and respect they deserve.

Police Killing of Najee Seabrooks is the Result of a Systemic Policy Failure

Najee Seabrooks should still be alive. Mental health crises should be met with trained professionals, not heavily armed police.

Governor’s Budget Proposal Rests on Shaky Foundation With Corporate Tax Cuts

Eliminating the Corporate Business Tax Surcharge will blow a $1 billion hole in the state budget.

Letting the Corporate Business Tax Surcharge Expire Will Give a Huge Tax Cut to the Most Profitable Businesses

Allowing the Corporate Business Tax Surcharge to expire would give the biggest and most profitable corporations a $600 million tax cut.

Opportunity for All is Not Possible With a Tax Code Rigged for the Few

Governor Murphy's State of the State touted new programs that give families a shot at success, but more is needed to promote opportunity for all.