3 Republicans Launch Run For NJ State Senate, Assembly In 2023

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Longtime Essex County politico Al Barlas will join Sen. Kristin Corrado and Assemblyman Chris DePhillips for a 2023 run in New Jersey’s 40th Legislative district, the trio of Republicans announced Thursday.

Barlas has served as Essex County GOP chair for nearly a decade. He’ll bring some firepower to a traditionally Democratic voting bloc in the county, according to a joint statement from Corrado and DePhillips, who are both seeking re-election.

The district also includes several towns in Bergen and Passaic counties (see below).

Corrado and DePhillips wrote:

“Together, we have had the honor of serving the people of District 40 and the State of New Jersey, and we look forward to continuing that service. Reapportionment has changed our district, adding new communities we haven’t served before; with the addition of six new Essex County towns, we are excited to welcome Al to the team. Thanks to his deep knowledge of the communities in Essex County, as well as his prior service in LD 40, there is no better person to add to the team. This ticket now has a geographic balance that will ensure all three counties and 15 municipalities are properly represented. We couldn’t be more excited to have Al on the ticket and to hit the campaign trail.”

Barlas thanked Corrado and DePhillips in his own statement about the campaign launch. He wrote:

“I’m honored to join this team alongside true public servants in Kristin Corrado and Chris DePhillips. I never thought life would bring me to seek public office, but after having served in government, I know that public service is my passion. As an assemblyman, I will join Senator Corrado and Assemblyman DePhillips in their fight against the reckless fiscal policies that have led to crushing taxes, skyrocketing inflation and out-of-control spending. I will always stand with law enforcement and make sure that our streets are safe. And, as a parent of two young children, I will work to ensure that all of our children get the best possible education to pursue their American Dream.”

The trio noted that they have gained endorsements from several county GOP and district leaders, including Bergen County GOP chair Jack Zisa, Passaic County GOP chair Peter Murphy, Essex County GOP vice-chair Mary Devon O’Brien, and Bergen GOP District 40 Chairman Drita McNamara.

The recently redrawn 40th District includes the following municipalities:

• Bergen County – Franklin Lakes, Ridgewood and Wyckoff
• Essex County – Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, Verona
• Passaic County – Hawthorne, Little Falls, Totowa, Wayne and Woodland Park

In related news, former Wyckoff Mayor Kevin Rooney, now a Republican assemblyman representing New Jersey's 40th Legislative District, announced Thursday that he will be retiring from the General Assembly at the end of the legislative term. Read More: District 40 Assemblyman Kevin Rooney (R-Wyckoff) Announces Retirement

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