Corey McNair officially adds his name to the list of Trenton mayoral candidates with a press conference on Sunday, January 18.

McNair, a veteran city police officer, enters the race with a 6 p.m. live stream event at 715 Bellevue Ave. The McNair campaign offered these remarks ahead of his announcement:

Corey McNair.(Submitted photo)
Corey McNair.
(Submitted photo)

Corey McNair is a dedicated public safety professional, community advocate, and transformational leader with deep roots in the city of Trenton. With over a decade of experience in law enforcement, community development, and executive protection, Corey has built a reputation as a bridge-builder between the streets and city hall fighting for accountability, safety, and opportunity in the neighborhoods that need it most.

In addition, McNair serves on the City of Trenton’s Rent Stabilization Board, focusing on fair housing and residents’ rights, while also bringing practical insight as a local investor who owns and manages over a dozen rental units in Trenton, emphasizing tenant empowerment, community pride, and dignity in the home; as Detective Corey McNair, he is a law enforcement officer and founder of The Corey McNair Foundation, dedicated to bridging the gap between police and community, building trust, fostering understanding, and creating opportunities for positive engagement and meaningful change.

Born and raised in Trenton, Corey has served his city with honor, starting as a Youth Development Specialist mentoring at-risk teens, and rising through the ranks to become a respected Detective within the Trenton Police Department. In his current role in the Community Affairs Unit, he leads initiatives that confront crime at its roots working together with residents, nonprofits, and advocacy groups to build trust and restore hope.

Previously, Corey served in the Executive Protection Unit, safeguarding the city’s top officials and overseeing emergency planning during moments of crisis.

His ability to remain calm under pressure and lead with integrity earned him the confidence of city leaders and the respect of his peers.

Corey holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Rider University and a bachelor’s in communications from New Jersey City University. Throughout his career, he has fused his academic training with street-level insight to develop pragmatic, people-first strategies that improve public safety and strengthen community trust.

Whether responding to emergency calls as a patrol officer, de-escalating conflict in correctional facilities, or mentoring young people navigating systemic obstacles, Corey has always been guided by one mission: to “serve and uplift his city”.

Now, he stands ready to take that service to the next level, bringing bold leadership, lived experience, and a vision rooted in justice, equity, and opportunity for all Trenton residents.

(The Trentonian welcomes opinions, resumes, and comments from candidates for city council and mayor).