Al Harris

Senior Associate

Al@1868publicaffairs.com

A veteran executive in government, legislative affairs, and public relations, Al Harris brings a wealth of experience to 1868 Public Affairs, along with a proven track record of fostering successful collaborations and delivering impactful projects with both state and federal governments. Additionally, he has a keen ability to handle complex challenges and unite diverse groups to achieve shared goals.mm look me

Throughout his career, Al has accumulated over 50 years of public affairs experience, including 11 years as a partisan staff member for the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly. During this time, he held key roles such as Special Assistant to the Senate President, Special Assistant to the Assembly Speaker, and co-founder and Executive Director of the Legislative Black and Latino Caucus.

Al later served as the Director of State Government Relations for the New Jersey Housing Finance and Mortgage Department. He was appointed to the Bureau of Census, Philadelphia Region, within the United States Department of Commerce. His work in these roles has provided him with unparalleled expertise and strategic insight, enabling him to deliver exceptional results for clients by navigating complex government landscapes and driving effective public affairs campaigns.

He attended Ewing Public Schools and Lawrenceville School before attending Columbia University, where he majored in history with a specialization in political science. As part of his passion for imparting knowledge and sharing expertise, Al has taught marketing courses at Bergen Community College and Mercer County Community College Continuing Education. He has also contributed to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority's Entrepreneur Training Institute (ETI).

As a single parent, Al raised two wonderful children, Mercy Negrita and Albert Allen Jr. This experience has been his greatest challenge and accomplishment, demonstrating his dedication and resilience. In 2005 Al married Wanda Valdes, a kindergarten teacher from Brooklyn, New York. They share a deep commitment to family values, education, and community service, traits that are central to their relationship and family life.