GOP Mahwah officials endorse Pallotta Assembly primary bid

A group of Mahwah Republicans endorsed former congressional candidate Frank Pallotta in his bid for the GOP nomination for Assembly in the 39th legislative district. 

Mayor James Wysocki and Councilmembers Michelle Paz, Robert Ferguson, and George Ervin endorsed Pallotta, according to a Wednesday press release. Pallotta is challenging incumbent Assemblymen Bob Auth (R-Old Tappan) and John Azzariti (R-Saddle River) in the Bergen County district.

“As Mayor of Mahwah, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Frank Pallotta’s dedication to our community firsthand over his 35 years as a resident,” Wysocki said in a release. “Frank’s tireless commitment to the people of Mahwah isn’t just talk — it’s backed by decades of service and real results for our town.”

Wysocki’s endorsement was at the center of controversy earlier this month. A campaign mailer from Auth and Azzariti listed endorsements from Wysocki and Waldwick Mayor Tom Giordano. Giordano said he had not endorsed any candidate, and Pallotta said Wysocki’s inclusion was also incorrect.

“Frank Pallotta represents the values and vision that Mahwah residents expect from their leaders,” the councilmembers stated in a joint statement. “His commitment to fiscal responsibility, public safety, and protecting our quality of life aligns perfectly with the needs of our community.”