Election Profile: 21st District Assembly Candidate Jennifer Makar

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Voters in Westfield, Summit, Cranford, Garwood, and several other towns in Union, Somerset and Morris counties can vote for one state Senate candidate and two Assembly representatives in the 21st District election this year.

This Tuesday, candidates are running for the Democratic and Republican nominations to vie to get their party's nomination to run in fall.

Among those running to get the Republican nomination for 21st District Assembly this Tuesday is Jennifer A. Makar. She is facing off against incumbent Nancy Muñoz and candidate Michele Matsikoudis. Only two can get the Republican party nomination to face two Democrats in November.

The other Assembly incumbent, John Bramnick, is running for state Senate.

On the Democratic side, Elizabeth A. Graner and Anjali Mehrotra are seeking the nomination.

Here is the profile that Republican candidate Jennifer A. Makar submitted to Patch:

Jennifer A. Makar - Assembly candidate

Age (as of Election Day)

35

Party Affiliation

Republican

Family

Unmarried

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Education B.A., Psychology and Legal Studies; William Paterson University

Occupation Contracts Analyst

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office None

Campaign website www.jenn4nj.org

Why are you seeking elected office?

Because we have a state to save.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Property taxes and education. Reimplement the 2 percent cap and allow families school choice vouchers.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am a Faithful Christian Conservative Woman making my first run for office. I am not a product of the party system or backroom appointments. I stand for Faith, Families and Community. I seek to serve my future constituents', not myself, my donors or party elites.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency) This is for an open seat.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform. Freedom of thought and speech; education not indoctrination; less government; medical freedom; efficient government.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I am diplomatic, a good listener, have performed extensive community service and can engage and lead for the community. I am a first generation American who earned a college degree from a public university. My employer has recognized and awarded my hard work and efficient way of achieving planned goals. I also built a successful small business from the ground up.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

My dad used to always tell us "there is a time and place for everything." It is a verse from Ecclesiastes.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

That I have the conviction to tell the truth, fight for what is right for my district, and always be true to my values and God's purpose for me.

To contribute candidate information, suggestions, and thoughts, post below or email: caren.lissner@patch.com.

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