Andy Kim Makes Another Campaign Trip To Newark: Election 2024

NEWARK, NJ — The race for a U.S. Senate seat in New Jersey is heating up, with candidates continuing their campaign tours across the state ahead of the 2024 election.

On Friday, Newark got another campaign visit from Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-3), who made a trip to several small businesses in the North Ward of the city.

Kim was accompanied in Newark by his fellow U.S. congressman, Rep. Rob Menendez Jr. (NJ-8), who is running for re-election in the 8th District, which includes part of Newark.

The congressmen were greeted by North Ward Chair Samuel Gonzalez, Newark City Council members Luis Quintana and Anibal Ramos, Essex County Sheriff candidate Amir Jones, Commercial District Services President Chris Bernardo, Newark Board of Education member Josephine Garcia, and George Torres (on behalf of the Hispanic Law Enforcement Society).

Together they visited a hair salon, juice bar, and two pharmacies on Bloomfield Avenue, and spoke with small business owners about their concerns and the needs of the North Ward community in general.

“Hearing from small business owners with Rob today highlighted how important it is for federal officials to work together at all levels to show up for small businesses across the state, and make sure resources are going where they are most needed to ensure places like the North Ward can continue relying on these staples of their community,” Kim said.

“I appreciate everyone who took their time out today to speak with us, and I look forward to a continued partnership,” he added.

Kim made a campaign trip to Newark earlier this year, offering support for a local church as it expands its long-running outreach program. He was also present at the annual state of the city address.

• See Related: Rep. Andy Kim Praises Newark Church As He Continues Senate Bid
• See Related: Once Forgotten, Newark Is On The Rise: Mayor Presents 'State Of City'

The congressman is one of several candidates running to replace recently convicted Sen. Bob Menendez, who had an office in Newark for much of his tenure. A primary election took place in June, with Kim capturing the Democrat nomination and South Jersey entrepreneur Curtis Bashaw earning the Republican nod. Independent and third-party candidates include Christina Khalil (Green Party), Kenneth Kaplan (Libertarian Party), Joanne Kuniansky (Socialist Workers Party), and Patricia Mooneyham (Independent).

Gov. Phil Murphy announced that George Helmy, his former chief of staff, will be Menendez’s interim replacement in the U.S. Senate until the term begins for the winner of the general election on Nov. 5. See Related: Murphy Picks Temp Replacement For Bob Menendez In New Jersey

The Brick City has also seen visits from other Senate candidates, including Khalil, who visited Newark on a petition drive this spring and spoke with families who have had struggles with homelessness. See Related: Stories Of Homelessness In Newark ‘Broke My Heart,’ Senate Candidate Says

Meanwhile, Bashaw – who grew up in Camden County and has heavy ties to Cape May – recently launched a Labor Day weekend campaign blitz that touched Scotch Plains, Wayne Township, Point Pleasant Beach and South Plainfield. He was also in Middlesex County for the annual Cranbury Day.

• See Related: NJ Libertarians Back 8 Congress Candidates In 2024, Including Senate

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