3 Councilpeople Give Endorsements For Bhalla, Menendez For Congress; Bhalla Office To Open

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — Three more Hoboken and Jersey City council members have picked sides in the heated battle for the 8th District Congress seat. Incumbent Rep. Rob Menendez Jr. is facing Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla and Kyle Jasey for the Democratic nomination.

Also, Bhalla plans to open his election office Saturday and the public is welcome to attend. The event will run from 12-2 p.m. at 331 Grand St., on the west side of Hoboken.

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The newest endorsements are:

• Bhalla was endorsed by Jersey City Council President Joyce Waterman. He was also endorsed by a longtime political ally, Hoboken 5th Ward Councilman Phil Cohen.
• Menendez was endorsed by new Hoboken 1st Ward Councilman Paul Presinzano.

The 8th District includes Hoboken, some of Jersey City, most Hudson County towns, Elizabeth, and the East and North Wards of Newark.

Here is what the council members said:

Watterman

“I’m concerned about the future of New Jersey. As we heard the court's ruling striking down the county line, it speaks to how much change is truly needed in New Jersey. Women are underrepresented in New Jersey Government. As a woman I’m tired of being disrespected by those who sit in seats of power. I'm tired of false promises and secret partnerships. I am a woman who has my own voice and stands with my own convictions. It is the voice of women all over NJ that continues to be ignored. But that stops now. Today, I endorse Ravi Bhalla for Congress because I believe in him. As mayor of Hoboken, Ravi has delivered for his community. From taking on the crisis of affordability to ensuring that our most vulnerable residents are taken care of, Congress would benefit a great deal from Ravi’s leadership. And throughout his time as a public servant - first as a city council member and then as mayor - Ravi has provided a strong and consistent voice against hatred, racism and discrimination in all its forms. He is the kind of representative we need in our corner, which is why he has my full and enthusiastic support"

Presinzano

"After witnessing years of divisive politics and power-hungry tactics from his opponent, the choice is clear. Rob has consistently delivered for the 8th District, making him the right choice for our community. As a Hoboken Councilman, I have personally experienced Rob Menendez's dedication. He always makes himself accessible and prioritizes the concerns of our community. We have spent years watching our mayor run our city like a political campaign, chasing headlines, sowing political divisions and wasting taxpayer dollars. It would be a catastrophe if this behavior extended to the federal level. Rob consistently delivers for us. His genuine dedication to public service and love for the community sets him apart from his opponents. Rep. Rob Menendez is a tested leader and champion for our community. I am confident he will continue effectively representing our interests in Congress."

Cohen

"Ravi has effectively addressed the most important issues affecting our community, including flood resiliency infrastructure , climate change, parks and green spaces —as well as Vision Zero progress for pedestrian safety. I have seen it firsthand — as a leader of the Hoboken Democratic Party, as an engaged community leader, and as a Councilman. I know he will bring that same results-oriented, innovative approach and dedication to taking on the most important challenges to our nation’s capital. I enthusiastically endorse Mayor Ravi Bhalla to represent New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District.”

Other News

Both Bhalla and Menendez have raised more than $1 million for their campaigns.

Read more about the race:

• Bhalla, Menendez File Signatures To Run In June 4 Democratic Primary
• Days After 'Gold Bar Bob' Menendez Barb, Bhalla Asks For 6 Debates
• Chair of Hoboken Democratic Party Resigns From County Machine, With Letter