Mitchelle Drulis: Representing New Jersey's 16th Legislative District
Mitchelle Drulis is a prominent American politician and a member of the Democratic Party currently serving in the New Jersey General Assembly. Representing the 16th legislative district, Drulis has quickly established herself as a significant figure in state politics, bringing years of legislative and constituent service experience to her role.
Having assumed office on January 9, 2024, Drulis serves alongside fellow Assemblyman Roy Freiman. Her election marked a historic milestone for her region, as she became the first Democrat from Hunterdon County to be elected to the State Legislature in more than 40 years.
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Key Facts
- Office: Member of the New Jersey General Assembly, 16th District.
- Assumption of Office: January 9, 2024.
- Party Affiliation: Democratic.
- Education: Degree in political science from Rutgers University.
- Historic Achievement: First Democrat from Hunterdon County in the State Legislature in over four decades.
Professional Background and Education
Born Mitchelle A. Everest, she attended Santana High School in Santee, California, before moving to New Jersey. She graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in political science and also earned an associate's degree from the Eagleton Institute of Politics, where she served as an undergraduate associate.
Before her election to the General Assembly, Drulis built an extensive career as a legislative staffer. She began her professional journey as a legislative aide for Bob Smith (now a state senator) and later served as the chief of staff for Assemblyman Joseph V. Egan for over a decade.
In 2018, Drulis expanded her expertise into congressional politics, serving as the political director for Tom Malinowski's congressional campaign. She subsequently transitioned into the role of district director for Malinowski, where she managed a constituent services program that provided assistance to approximately 12,000 individuals across the district.
Legislative Career and Electoral Success
Drulis first entered the New Jersey General Assembly following the 2023 election, where she and running mate Roy Freiman defeated Republican candidates Ross Traphagen and Grace Zhang.
Her success continued in the 2025 election. Drulis and Freiman secured new terms by one of their largest margins to date, defeating Republican challengers Catherine Payne and Scott Sipos by more than 17,000 votes each.
District 16 Representation
The New Jersey Legislature is divided into 40 districts, each consisting of one state senator and two members of the General Assembly. For the 2024—2025 Legislative Session, the 16th District is represented by:
- Senator: Andrew Zwicker (D)
- Assemblywoman: Mitchelle Drulis (D)
- Assemblyman: Roy Freiman (D)
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Election Results Summary
The following table outlines the voting results for Mitchelle Drulis across her two most recent campaigns for the General Assembly.
| Election Year | Candidate | Votes Received | Percentage | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Mitchelle Drulis | 33,642 | 27.9% | Won |
| 2025 | Mitchelle Drulis | 55,773 | 29.6% | Won (Re-elected) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Mitchelle Drulis take office?
Mitchelle Drulis was sworn into the New Jersey General Assembly on January 9, 2024.
Which district does Mitchelle Drulis represent?
She represents the 16th legislative district of New Jersey.
What is Mitchelle Drulis's educational background?
She holds a degree in political science from Rutgers University and an associate's degree from the Eagleton Institute.
Why is her election considered historic for Hunterdon County?
Mitchelle Drulis is the first Democrat from Hunterdon County to be elected to the State Legislature in more than 40 years.
Who are her colleagues in the 16th District?
She serves alongside Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Senator Andrew Zwicker.