NJEA backs Amy Kennedy for Congress

The New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) has endorsed Amy Kennedy for the Democratic nomination for Conrgess in New Jersey’s 2nd district, the New Jersey Globe has learned.

Kennedy is a former public school teacher and NJEA member.

“Our members know an advocate when they see one, and that’s what they see in Amy Kennedy,” said NJEA President Marie Blistan. “Her commitment both to public schools and to the students and working families who rely on them will serve New Jersey well when she represents us in Congress. I know that Amy will keep the promises made to educators and make sure that at the end of their careers, New Jersey’s public school employees can count on retirement benefits we earn during a long career of service. She is the leader that CD2 needs in these challenging times.”

The endorsement comes with a recommendation that the National Education Association (NEA) also back Kennedy for the chance to take on Democrat-turned-Republican Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-Dennis).

“As a former public school teacher, a product of South Jersey public schools and the daughter of educators, I’m honored to have earned the support of my fellow educators and advocates,” Kennedy said.  “In Congress, it will be my privilege to stand up for educators across the district who do tireless work on behalf of our children and families every day.”

The NJEA endorsed Van Drew in his 2018 bid for Congress and in his 2017 re-election campaign for the New Jersey State Senate.

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has endorsed Brigid Callahan Harrison against Kennedy.

Harrison is a political science professor and AFT member.

This story was updated at 9:56 AM on April 28 to include comment from Kennedy and Blistan.