USAState & local legislatureDemocratic PartyNew Jersey · 29th Legislative DistrictMember of the New Jersey Senate
Teresa Ruiz
Profile
Maria Teresa Ruiz is an American politician serving as a member of the New Jersey Senate, representing the 29th Legislative District since 2008. A member of the Democratic Party, she has held the position of Senate Majority Leader since 2022, becoming the first Latina to lead either house of the New Jersey Legislature. Born and raised in Newark, she graduated from Drew University with a degree in English. Throughout her tenure, she has focused on legislative oversight and budget appropriations, and she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Montclair State University in 2025.
Details
- Born
- June 28, 1974 · 52 years old
- Birth place
- Newark, New Jersey
- Education
- Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, Drew University
- Career
- Member of the New Jersey Senate from the 29th district
