Rutgers’ Freshman Considering Run for City Council at Large in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, NJ - Today, Atlantic City resident Dafiq Rasheed announced that he has formed an exploratory committee to consider entering the race for City Council at Large. Mr. Rasheed, a political science major at Rutgers University in Camden would be the youngest Councilman in Atlantic City's history at the age of 19. He is a lifelong resident of the 2^nd Ward in Atlantic City and respected on the national political scene, most notably for his work on Democratic campaigns.

A strong advocate for youth, Dafiq Rasheed was awarded the Fannie Lou Hamer, Ordinary People, and Extraordinary Deeds Award by Councilman Gene Robinson in February of 2007 for his work in the community. Dafiq successfully completed the Ephren Taylor Entrepreneurship Program at Cheney University in 2007 and is an alumnus of the prestigious Presidential Classroom in Washington, DC.   Mr. Rasheed is no stranger to history, having been elected to the School Board as the student member at the age of 16.  

"I am currently seeking the support of voters, meeting with politicians, professors, and consultants throughout the country, and fundraising before I make an official announcement." said the Rutgers student. 

"I take this decision neither lightly nor flippantly, but with full faith in the possibilities of a better tomorrow. My candidacy will be filled with the purpose of advocating for our youngest people and our eldest. These are two constituencies that deserve a voice in the Council Chambers. My principled leadership on issues like spending, the elimination of corruption, and a spotlight on public safety will be the hallmark of my tenure in City Hall." 

 "Over the next couple of weeks, I look forward to meeting supporters from all six wards to make this decision," continued Rasheed.  "I have been blessed with the response that I have been getting from the citizens, my family, and friends.  I look forward to continuing my education at Rutgers and serving my community no matter what decision I make."