Joyce Rudin has officially declared her candidacy for mayor in West Orange, New Jersey, for the 2026 municipal election. In her announcement, part of her 'Rudin Report' series, she emphasized the need for change, stating, 'Change in our township has to start at the top.' Rudin, who has been a council member since 2024, plans to focus on revitalizing the downtown area by improving walkability and pedestrian safety to attract new businesses. She criticized the current administration for its lack of transparency and mismanagement, particularly regarding overdevelopment and the loss of green spaces. Rudin proposes practical solutions, such as modifying zoning codes to allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units and hiring a full-time in-house planner to oversee development. She aims to represent the residents' interests, offering her honesty and commitment to lead effectively. Other candidates in the mayoral race include Brian Rock, Tammy Williams, and Phil Orphanidis, indicating a competitive election ahead.