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.

Biden Student Debt Proposal Will Help New Jersey Families But Needs to Go Farther for Maximum Relief

President Biden's student loan forgiveness plan will provide hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans relief, allowing them to invest in their futures.

New State Budget is a Missed Opportunity to Make New Jersey Affordable for All

New state budget proposal was drafted behind closed doors and falls short of directing relief to low-paid workers who need it most.

Roe v. Wade Decision Will Deny Millions of People the Freedom to Control Their Own Bodies

Given our nation’s legacy of racism, abortion rights are not only a matter of reproductive health but of economic and racial justice.

It’s Time to Hold Amazon Accountable for High Worker Injury Rates

As Amazon grows into New Jersey's largest private employer, it's time to mandate health and safety protocols for its workers.

Striking Down Roe v. Wade is a Denial of Human Rights and Basic Freedom

NJPP calls on lawmakers to promote reproductive freedom by removing barriers to abortion care in light of Supreme Court decision.

May Day: Excessive CEO Pay Stifles Workers’ Wages

Corporate CEOs often exert their influence to hoard pay, further driving income inequality while workers struggle to make ends meet.

Breaking Down Governor Murphy’s FY 2023 Budget Proposal

State lawmakers have a big opportunity to make New Jersey affordable for all thanks to stronger than expected tax collections.

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.