One Board, One Future Slate Reflects on Election Results: “This Is Just the Beginning”

One Board, One Future Slate: Jansel Fuentes, Azim A. Gray, and Robbie Campbell-Lissade

Source: One Board One Future Campaign Media Team

(The Queen City) Plainfield, NJ— The One Board, One Future slate, which included candidates Jansel Fuentes, Azim A. Gray, and Robbie Campbell-Lissade, was not victorious in Tuesday’s Plainfield Board of Education election. Despite the outcome, the team expressed pride in their campaign and gratitude toward the community, pledging to continue advocating for students and families in the Queen City.

Incumbent Azim A. Gray was not re-elected, marking the end of his current term on the Plainfield Board of Education. Alongside his running mates, he thanked voters for their support and reaffirmed his dedication to the district’s success.

For Jansel Fuentes, the youngest candidate on the ballot and the only Latino in the race, the campaign represented more than just politics—it was a statement about the power of youth, representation, and perseverance. At just 19 years old, Fuentes made history as the first member of Generation Z to run for local office in Plainfield.

In an emotional concession speech, Fuentes addressed supporters with humility and hope:

“THANK YOU, PLAINFIELD

"Tonight, I just want to say thank you".

Thank you to the people of Plainfield who came out and voted, who opened their doors, their hearts, and their minds to new ideas and new voices. To everyone who believed in me and my running mate—your support means more than words can ever express.

While the results weren’t what we hoped for, I can truly say that we ran a good, honest, and meaningful campaign—one built on community, integrity, and love for our city.

As the only Latino on the ballot, the youngest candidate, and the first from Generation Z to run here in Plainfield, I’m proud of what we stood for. We showed that age, background, or status don’t define your ability to lead—what defines you is your heart, your courage, and your commitment to serve others.”

Fuentes also took time to thank his campaign team, supporters, and family:

“To my volunteers, supporters, and donors—thank you for believing when it wasn’t easy. To my amazing girlfriend, Julissa Charles, thank you for your patience, love, and faith in me. To my mom, my grandma, and my incredible siblings—your sacrifices, prayers, and encouragement are the foundation I stand on. And above all, thank you to God for guiding me every step of the way and reminding me that every setback is a setup for something greater.”

Closing his remarks, Fuentes reflected on the journey ahead:

“I may not have won a seat, but I won something bigger—the trust, the love, and the inspiration of a community that’s ready for change. This is not goodbye; this is just the beginning of a lifelong mission to serve, to lead, and to empower others. Plainfield, thank you for believing in me. The best is still ahead for all of us.”

Fellow slate member Robbie Campbell-Lissade echoed similar sentiments, commending the spirit of the campaign and emphasizing that the team’s message of unity and progress will continue beyond the ballot box.

While One Board, One Future did not secure seats this election cycle, the slate’s message resonated with many residents who applauded their commitment to educational reform, youth leadership, and community engagement.

As Plainfield’s newly elected Board of Education prepares to take office, the One Board, One Future team says their mission remains unchanged: to advocate for a school system that puts students first and ensures every child in the Queen City has access to opportunity, support, and success.