Daniel Israel is an award-winning journalist and documentarian based in Jersey City. He has earned recognition for his hard-hitting coverage at publications like the Hudson Reporter, Bayonne Community News, TAPinto.net, and Jersey City Magazine, and has contributed to the Associated Press’ Election Desk. Born and raised in Woodbridge, Israel began his journalism career at Rutgers University, where he was a reporter, documentarian, and radio host. His investigative work and commitment to exposing tough issues—from unsafe working conditions to public corruption—have earned him honors from the New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists and other organizations.

 

Beyond reporting, Israel has become a vocal advocate for protecting journalists from AI exploitation after his own bylines were replaced by fake AI-generated identities on a local news website. His activism has helped push AI accountability legislation in New Jersey. Now, Israel is stepping up his commitment to the community by running for Jersey City Council in Ward E as part of Team O’Dea. As a proud, openly gay progressive, Israel is focused on enforcing rent control, increasing affordable housing, improving public safety, and ensuring greater transparency in City Hall.