Indian-origin attorney Keshav Poddar has been sworn in as Jersey City’s deputy mayor for housing and economic development, marking a key appointment in the city’s new administration. Poddar took his oath on the Bhagwat Gita, highlighting his Indian roots.
Indian-origin attorney Keshav Poddar has been sworn in as Jersey City’s deputy mayor for housing and economic development, The Times of India reported. Highlighting his Indian roots, Poddar took the oath on the Bhagwat Gita.
Announcing the appointment, Jersey City Mayor-elect James Solomon said Poddar would be central to delivering a resident-first government. He said Poddar has built his career around affordable housing and advocating for working families, spanning courtrooms, state institutions, and federal policymaking. Poddar had earlier served as the executive director of Solomon’s transition team.
Experience across state and federal government
Poddar is a lawyer specialising in community economic development and affordable housing construction in New Jersey. He has held several positions at the state and federal levels, most recently serving as an economic policy adviser in the Joe Biden–Kamala Harris administration. His roles included stints at the National Security Council and on the staff of Vice President Kamala Harris. He also worked as Harris’s economic policy manager during her presidential campaign.
Earlier work in New Jersey
Before joining the federal government, Poddar served as counsel to former New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal. In that role, he contributed to the state’s Covid-19 response and worked on issues such as consumer protection, criminal justice reform, and opioid enforcement.
Education and background
A graduate of Yale Law School, Poddar also holds a BA in government from Dartmouth College. A New Jersey native, he currently lives in Jersey City.
Responsibilities as deputy mayor
As deputy mayor, Poddar will oversee the coordination of housing and economic development policies across city agencies, including negotiations related to affordable housing, workforce housing, and other community benefits.
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