Murphy endorses incumbents in 34th district primary

Gov. Phil Murphy is again weighing in on a Democratic Assembly primary in North Jersey, this time backing a pair of incumbents in the 34th district. 

Assemblywoman Carmen Morales (D-Belleville) and Assemblyman Michael Venezia (D-Bloomfield) face challenges from a pair of candidates backed by Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop: former East Orange Councilwoman Brittany Claybrooks, who finished fifth in a special congressional primary last year, and Belleville Councilman Frank Vélez. 

“Assemblyman Venezia and Assemblywoman Morales are effective, principled leaders who get things done for the people of Essex County,” Murphy said in a release. “Whether it’s delivering property tax relief, investing in our schools, or expanding economic opportunity, Mike and Carmen have been strong partners in building a stronger and fairer New Jersey. I fully support their re-election and look forward to continuing our work together.”

The 34th legislative district falls in Essex County, and a majority of the district’s Democratic voters hail from Bloomfield or East Orange. Morales and Venezia were first elected in 2023 as part of Essex County’s massive legislative delegation shuffle.

Murphy has endorsed a slew of candidates across the state in recent days, including several in primary fights against Fulop-backed candidates. The governor endorsed party-backed candidates in the 31st, 35th, and Hudson sheriff primaries. 

Fulop is supporting a slate of Assembly candidates, most of whom are challenging incumbents.

Venezia and Morales thanked Murphy for the endorsement in statements.

“Governor Murphy’s leadership has made a real difference in Essex County,” Venezia said. “We’re proud to stand with him and continue the fight for a better future for all.”

“We are honored to receive Governor Murphy’s endorsement,” Morales added. “Together, we’ve been advancing the values and priorities that matter most to the families of our district.”