Brick Native Secures Endorsement of Ocean, Monmouth Democrats for Congressional Run

Rachel Peace (center) New Jersey Democratic State Chair LeRoy Jones (left) and Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin. (Campaign Photo)

A Brick Township native has received two key endorsements in her bid to represent the Democratic party in next year’s race against U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, the longest-serving member of the state’s congressional delegation.

Rachel Peace, 33, made significant progress toward becoming her party’s candidate for the 4th Congressional District seat by earning the endorsement of Ocean County Democrats at their convention on March 15, 2026. The Ocean County nod follows a similar endorsement by the Monmouth County Democratic organization on February 7, which certifies Peace as the candidate who will enter the June 2, 2026, primary election with the widest range of support.

Peace currently resides in Monmouth County, however she would represent her hometown should she be successful in her challenge against Smith. She graduated from Brick Memorial High School in 2010 before attending Hofstra University in New York.

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“As a newcomer to the political scene, I’m humbled to have earned the nomination of Ocean County, where I grew up, on the heels of my endorsement in Monmouth County, where I’m raising my son,” she said. “I’m hopeful that my race is an indicator of a broader, nationwide trend of regular younger people — not corrupt career politicians — stepping up to solve problems we didn’t create and change conditions we won’t accept by bringing unique expertise and alternative perspectives to Congress, proving we can legislate in a better way.”

Peace has cleverly used her surname as a catchy vehicle to gain support, creating groups including “GenZ4Peace” and “Retirees4Peace,” aimed at recruiting both voters and volunteers for her campaign. She has focused much of her campaign on healthcare policy, including a push to increase funding for Medicaid.

Peace runs a small consulting business, Hyperfocused Communications, that promotes progressive messaging.