There’s a new, energizing force in the BTDC. And her name is Rani Maloney. Although Rani has lived in Basking Ridge for about 14 years, she only recently became involved with local politics in 2024 through the Facebook Bernards Progressive Women’s page. Now, there’s no stopping her!

As a passionate Dem, Rani says, “I’m a lone wolf in my family, and have wanted to be around more likeminded people. I found them through the Progressive Women’s group.” Her involvement with local politics kicked off with postcard writing and now includes a newsletter she began publishing, called “What Can I Do?” which points subscribers to local events and political activity. Rani is also involved with the Morris/Essex visibility brigade, and a founding member of Finding Kean Fridays, a group dedicated to protesting outside Congressman Kean’s offices. This group has teamed up with One NJ7 and is planning a large protest rally in Kean’s hometown of Westfield soon.

When she’s not busy “making good trouble,” Rani enjoys spending time on her boat at the New Jersey Shore, hanging with her boyfriend of many years, and her cats, Kirk and Sulu. She also loves political reading, especially articles in The Atlantic. Having spent part of her childhood in India, Rani is interested in becoming more involved with the Indian community in Basking Ridge. “India is where my name came from!” she proudly says. “My grandmother was a missionary there; my father grew up in India and I attended elementary school there before moving to the U.S.” She remains active in the Kodaikanal International School and still attends their annual reunions.

Looking forward, Rani is ready to become more active within the BTDC, specifically. She is currently an associate district rep and plans to apply for openings for local boards via Tap the Talent and is also thinking about running for local office at some point. Even though Rani has no children of her own, she says, “I’m concerned with keeping Moms of Liberty out of our school system.” She’s also worried about the infighting she sees on the Bernards Township Committee.

When you witness this politically-engaged lady around town – planting signs for Hodges & Tompkins, demanding accountability from Tom Kean, Jr. or otherwise helping blue causes – thank her for bringing momentum to local Democratic causes. 

– Jen Aaron