New Jersey GOP Enters 9th District Race as Tiffany Burress Announces Congressional Bid

Tiffany Burress, a New Jersey attorney and businesswoman, is running for Congress in the 9th District as a Republican. This week, Burress, the wife of former NFL great Plaxico Burress, declared her first political attempt.

Burress announced her campaign as a political outsider with extensive professional experience outside Washington. She said her legal, business, and community experience help her understand North Jersey families and small businesses’ daily concerns. The district needs Congressmen with real-world experience, not decades in government, according to her message.

Burress contrasted her upbringing with that of Democratic lawmaker Nellie Pou. After years in politics, Pou was estranged from citizens, she said, and long-term party leadership in Washington has failed to bring substantial benefits for local communities. Burress said the contest presents a decision between new leadership and established political careers.

Despite being fresh to political politics, Burress has gained backing from North Jersey Republican leaders. A joint statement from Passaic, Bergen, and Hudson county party chairs endorsed her candidacy. They called her a serious candidate in a Democratic district. They show that state Republican leadership supports her early in the election.

Republicans are questioning the 9th Congressional District’s longtime Democratic dominance after recent elections. National GOP strategists saw opportunities after former President Donald Trump outperformed expectations in the area in 2024. The National Republican Congressional Committee now sees the seat as a 2026 midterm pickup.

The political picture remains difficult for Republicans. In November 2025, Democratic Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli, demonstrating that state and district dynamics may not match national trends. That shows Republican candidates in historically blue New Jersey have a tough fight.

Burress’s husband’s football career boosts her fame. In Super Bowl XLII, one of the most legendary NFL upsets, Plaxico Burress scored the game-winning touchdown for the New York Giants. After a season with the Jets, he retired. Tiffany Burress’s campaign emphasizes her professional accomplishments and policy aims more than his sports legacy.

The race in New Jersey’s 9th District will likely become more competitive due to national political momentum, local party strength, and outsider candidates. Burress’s entrance adds a fresh dimension to the race and hints that Republicans may fight Democratic dominance.