Nelida Pou — Democrat Candidate for U.S. House in New Jersey, 2026

Congresswoman Nelida Pou has consistently opposed measures she deems overly punitive toward immigrants. She voted against H.R. 7147, which would increase funding for the Department of Homeland Security, citing a lack of guardrails for ICE and inadequate due process. Pou also voted against H.R. 35, stating it "demonizes legal immigrants" and does "more harm than good," advocating for fair immigration laws that protect both Americans and basic rights. She has criticized ICE enforcement practices, calling them "lawlessness" and demanding accountability.

““Groundhog Day was last week but here we are in Congress voting on another extreme Republican immigration measure,” said Congresswoman Pou. “Americans rightly demand a secure border and fair immigration system. I agree with them. But this is yet another overly-punitive immigration bill that seeks to demonize legal immigrants in our district and represents a solution in search of a problem. I will continue to support fair, common sense immigration laws that will protect Americans and protect basic rights. This bill does more harm than good.” - Congresswoman Nellie Pou, InsiderNJ”

Candidate Nelida Pou voted in favor of H.R. 1834 to reinstate enhanced Affordable Care Act tax subsidies, aiming to ensure New Jersey residents and Americans can afford basic healthcare without choosing between necessities. She also voted against a rural healthcare fund, and stated she would oppose legislation that would raise healthcare costs for her constituents.

““Today I voted to ensure that New Jersey residents and Americans across the country can afford basic and lifesaving health care,” said Congresswoman Pou. “No family in America should be forced to choose between affording food, energy, or health care.””

Nelida Pou prioritizes environmental justice and climate action, stating these issues will be a top priority for her. In Congress, she voted Nay on both the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act (H.R.4758) and the Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act (H.R.4626) in February 2026. As a state legislator, she co-sponsored the Global Warming Response Act and legislation to prioritize environmental project funding for local employment.

“With the most Superfund sites in the entire nation, New Jersey deserves a fighter in Congress who will prioritize holding polluters accountable and address a legacy of environmental injustice. That is why environmental issues will be a top priority of mine.” – LCVAF Questionnaire”

Research pending more substantial sources.

Nelida Pou supported the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which authorized a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers, expanded bonuses, and provided security assistance for Ukraine and Taiwan, while also strengthening national security. She also voted against a funding increase for the Department of Homeland Security (H.R. 7147), citing the absence of new guardrails and accountability measures for DHS agents and expressing concerns about due process rights. Her stance emphasizes military support and security with an emphasis on accountability for federal agencies.

““This week, I voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. Though far from perfect — this funding gives a well-deserved pay increase to military personnel, provides support to our allies and friends like Ukraine and Taiwan, repeals outdated sanctions to Syria, and strengthens our national security,” said Congresswoman Pou. “I am proud of our Democratic caucus which stood firm and defeated the inclusion of harmful amendments that attempted to please the president at the expense of the American people. I hope this bill is a testament to the bipartisan work that is possible, even in this Congress and I urge my colleagues on both sides to continue working together for the security, safety, and well-being of the American people.” — Congresswoman Pou, pou.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-pou-votes-pay-raise-troops, December 12, 2025”

Research pending more substantial sources.

Research pending more substantial sources.