Edison, New Jersey witnessed a rare display of political unity and community pride as nearly a thousand residents, dignitaries, and community leaders gathered on January 4, 2026, for the inauguration of returning Mayor Sam Joshi. The ceremony, held at the expansive Edison Youth Sports Complex, marked the beginning of Joshi’s second term after a decisive re-election victory that saw him secure 72 percent of the vote.
The event drew an impressive lineup of VIPs, underscoring Joshi’s growing stature in New Jersey politics. Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill administered the oath of office, while outgoing Governor Phil Murphy, state lawmakers, municipal leaders, and prominent figures from across the region were also in attendance. Members of the Edison City Council — including Indian American Councilman Biral Patel — were sworn in alongside the mayor.
Addressing the crowd, Mayor Joshi struck a tone of humility and unity as he reflected on the trust placed in him by the voters.
“I am truly humbled today to stand before you as your mayor for the second time in four years,” Joshi said. He thanked his wife, parents, family, and the broader Edison community, crediting their support for his return to office. “Our community has shown just how united it is,” he added, pointing to the overwhelming margin of his re-election.
Joshi emphasized that Edison’s diversity remains a source of strength rather than division.
“Not despite, but because of our differences, Edison is united in wanting strong and steady leadership, real progress, and a shared vision of our future,” he said. He pledged to lead an inclusive administration guided by the trust and confidence of the residents.
Following the ceremony, Mayor Joshi shared his gratitude on social media, noting the scale and significance of the gathering.
“Incredibly grateful to have nearly a thousand residents come out to Edison’s Inauguration for Mayor and Council,” he wrote. “My oath of office was administered by Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill with Governor Murphy and my wife present. I look forward to working with Gov. Sherrill.”
The event also resonated strongly within the Indian American community, which has played a key role in Edison’s civic life. Among the notable guests was Padma Shri awardee Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold. Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Parikh described the ceremony as a powerful representation of community leadership.
“It was an honor to attend the inauguration ceremony of Samip Joshi as Mayor of Edison at his kind invitation,” Dr. Parikh said. “The event reflected the spirit of community, service, and leadership that defines Edison. I extend my warm congratulations to Mayor Joshi and wish him great success as he begins this important responsibility.”
Outgoing Governor Phil Murphy, who has led multiple trade delegations to India during his tenure, highlighted his close working relationship with Mayor Joshi, particularly on issues affecting small businesses and economic development in Edison. Murphy noted that during his travels across India, Edison frequently became part of his pitch.
“‘Oak Tree Road’ are three words that are known all over the world,” Murphy said to loud applause, referencing Edison’s iconic South Asian business corridor. “I have dubbed Sam as the mayor of the fastest-growing Indian community outside of India, in the world.”
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, who administered Joshi’s oath, called the occasion especially meaningful, noting that it coincides with the 250th anniversary of Edison and the United States.
“New Jersey is where it all began — and where we are continuing to fight for all the promises made 250 years ago,” Sherrill said. She praised Joshi for becoming Edison’s youngest mayor when first sworn in back in 2022.
“It demonstrates how Edison continues the vision of America — where there is opportunity for all,” she said. “It is a true honor to be swearing you in today.”
Born and raised in Edison, Sam Joshi first assumed office on January 1, 2022, and completed his initial term on December 31, 2025. During his first term, he became known for running a hands-on, publicly engaged administration that consistently highlighted Edison’s diversity as a civic and economic asset.
Joshi’s tenure has been marked by tangible infrastructure and community improvements. His administration oversaw the upscaling of 32 municipal parks, opened Edison’s first-ever Splash Park, and successfully brought Comcast/Xfinity to the township as a second internet service provider, increasing competition and connectivity. On public safety, Joshi championed a statewide crime law aimed at combating home invasions and burglaries.
His administration also reinstated the Fix-It Program, providing critical home repair assistance to Edison’s seniors and residents with disabilities — a move widely praised by community advocates.
Before becoming mayor, Joshi served four years on the Edison Township Council, more than four years with the Fair Rental Housing Authority, and two years on the Edison Zoning Board, building a deep understanding of municipal governance.
As he begins his second term, supporters say the scale and enthusiasm of the inauguration signal strong public confidence in his leadership. With state leaders, community icons, and residents standing alongside him, Mayor Sam Joshi enters the next chapter of his tenure positioned as one of New Jersey’s most prominent and widely supported municipal leaders.
