Organization-backed LD-35 candidates endorse each other

Three Democrats running for legislative seats in the 35th district endorsed each other Wednesday afternoon, showing a united front as organization-backed candidates face primary competitors.

State Sen. Benjie Wimberly (D-Paterson), who is running for a full term in the legislature’s upper chamber this fall, endorsed Assemblyman Al Abdelaziz (D-Paterson) and Passaic County Commissioner Orlando Cruz for Assembly. Abdelaziz and Cruz will face attorney Kenyatta Stewart and Garfield Councilman Romi Herrera in June’s primary.

“I am proud to run with my great teammates, Al Abdelaziz and Orlando Cruz,” Wimberly said in a release. “We are united in our dedication to working hard for the people of Passaic County.”

The Passaic County Democratic Committee is backing that trio, while Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop is backing Herrera’s candidacy.

“Our candidates, Senator Benjie Wimberly, Assemblyman Al Abdelaziz, and Commissioner Orlando Cruz, will receive full support from our local Democratic leaders,” said Passaic County Democratic Chairman John Currie. “They exemplify the dedication, teamwork, and community focus that we value.”

Wimberly succeeded now-Rep. Nellie Pou (D-North Haledon) after she won a special election to replace the late Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-Paterson). Wimberly is the sole Democrat to run in this fall’s special election to fill the seat for the rest of Pou’s unexpired term.