In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Alonzo Herran n Jr., born and raised in Newark, NJ, for a deep conversation about service, leadership, and why he’s running for Newark Councilman At-Large in 2026.

Alonzo shares his journey from over 20 years with the Newark Police Department, to working inside city government as a chief of staff (2018–2022), returning to lead code enforcement, and building a life as a real estate investor, author, and independent filmmaker. He explains what the Councilman At-Large role actually does—serving the entire city, shaping legislation, allocating resources, and staying directly connected to residents’ needs.

The conversation dives into the issues facing Newark today: housing affordability versus real incomes, smart development and accountability, fair wages and morale inside city departments, public safety and community policing, and why quality-of-life issues like trash, potholes, and neighborhood upkeep matter more than people realize. Alonzo also talks about transparency, avoiding political complacency, and the importance of passing the baton to the next generation of leadership.

This is an honest, on-the-ground discussion about Newark’s past, present, and future—and what it takes to move a city forward together.

👉 Listen to the full episode, share it with someone who cares about Newark, and drop your thoughts in the comments. If nothing else… I Hope This Helps.

For more information about Alonzo you can follow him https://www.instagram.com/hroyalfamily

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