Biography

Assemblywoman Linda Carter has built a distinguished career focused on public service and advocacy for underprivileged and middle-class communities. With nearly two decades of experience, she is widely recognized as a progressive and pragmatic leader who is dedicated to improving the lives of her constituents.

A lifelong resident of Plainfield, Assemblywoman Carter was appointed to the New Jersey General Assembly on May 24, 2018, to represent the 22nd Legislative District, which encompasses portions of Union and Somerset Counties. Her appointment followed the passing of Assemblyman Gerald B. Green. She was later elected in a special election on November 6, 2018, to complete the unexpired term. Assemblywoman Carter currently serves in several key leadership roles, including Majority Conference Leader, Vice Chair of the Higher Education Committee, and as a member of the Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee and the Appropriations Committee. 

Her educational background is extensive. Assemblywoman Carter earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Management, specializing in Information Management, from Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Before joining the General Assembly, Carter served as a Plainfield City Council Member, representing the First and Fourth Wards. Her leadership roles included serving as a liaison to various boards and committees, including the Housing Authority, Board of Education, and Cable Advisory Board. She also chaired the Public Safety and Neighborhood and City Services Committees, and was ultimately elected Council President, where she guided legislative initiatives for the city.

In addition to her time on the City Council, Assemblywoman Carter served three terms as a Union County Commissioner. During her tenure, she contributed to key committees, including the Fiscal Committee, which oversaw a half-billion-dollar budget, and the Homeland Security Committee, which worked with law enforcement agencies to protect critical infrastructure like the NY/NJ Port Authority. Carter was also instrumental in the Shared Services Committee, helping to identify ways to reduce costs for taxpayers through the consolidation of local government services. She made history as the first African American woman to serve as Chair of the Union County Board of Commissioners.

Beyond her public service, Carter is a passionate advocate for her community, especially youth and senior citizens. She has received numerous awards for her efforts and has served as a mentor, a Big Sister, and an advocate for homelessness initiatives.

In addition to her work in government, Assemblywoman Carter is a dedicated educator, currently teaching business education at a high school in Passaic. Carter is a staunch advocate for public education and a proud member of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). She previously worked in corporate America with AT&T in Access Management within the CFO Division and as a Portfolio Asset Manager for AT&T Credit Communication.

Carter is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Where she has held leadership roles, including serving as Chapter President for four terms. She is also a member of the New Jersey Board of Realtors.