To the Editor:
In 2025, Sen. Andy Kim launched a training program to prepare the next generation of civic and public leaders in New Jersey. Marina Rubina is a member of the inaugural cohort of that initiative and the first to run for public office.
Kim’s Next Generation Leaders training is designed to support leaders like Marina, who, in Kim’s own words, are “…good, hardworking people focused on developing tangible solutions, working where the rubber meets the road, and injecting integrity and civility into our politics.” That description fits Marina Rubina to a tee.
An architect and professional planner, Marina has been working to create opportunities for affordable housing, walkable neighborhoods, and community-based businesses throughout her career. As a co-owner of Princeton’s unique co-working space, Tiger Labs; a member of Experience Princeton’s Economic Development Committee; a member of the board of Princeton Future; a member of the town’s former Site Plan Review Advisory Board (SPRAB); and a successful architect in Princeton and the surrounding region, Marina is uniquely positioned to serve our community at significant point in our history.
Princeton faces two immediate challenges right now. The rewriting of the town’s land use laws, which is scheduled to occur over the next few years, is a critical undertaking for the future development of Princeton. And the redevelopment of the town-owned Westminster Choir property provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to address the town’s civic infrastructure and other community needs.
Addressing these critical opportunities requires civic leaders with experience, vision, and creativity. The process demands leaders who prize problem-solving, transparency, communication, collaboration, civility, and technical know-how. The outcome of this process will influence development patterns, affordability, traffic, sustainability, and quality of life for generations to come.
Marina is a candidate who meets this critical moment.
I encourage you to join me in supporting Marina Rubina in the Democratic Primary. Early in-person voting takes place from May 26-31; voting on Primary Day is scheduled for June 2. And vote-by-mail ballots can be returned through 8 p.m. on June 2.