Ex-Vineland mayor backs Kennedy for Congress

Former Vineland Mayor Ruben Bermudez has endorsed Amy Kennedy for the Democratic congressional nomination in New Jersey’s 2nd district.

Bermudez is also backing incumbent Cumberland County Freeholder Jack Surrency and his running mates, Donna Pearson and Tracey Wells-Huggins, who have formed an off-the-line slate bracketed with Kennedy.

“The city of Vineland needs leaders that understand our challenges, can connect to our people, and are empathetic enough to want to listen and do something about it,” Bermudez said. “Amy Kennedy, Jack Surrency, Donna M. Pearson, and Tracey Wells-Huggins are those such people. The Column F Team has my full and unflinching support.”

Bermudez became Vineland’s first Hispanic mayor in 2012 when he ousted incumbent Robert Romano.  He lost his bid for re-election four years later to Council President Anthony Fanucci.

Cumberland County Democrats have endorsed Brigid Callahan Harrison for the chance to take on Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-Dennis).

The organization dumped Surrency from their slate earlier this year.

“Mayor Bermudez and his wife, Dr. Sandrie Bermudez, are committed to making change in Vineland, and I’m proud to have his support in my run for Congress,” Kennedy said.  “I’m committed to the people of South Jersey and serving our diverse communities, both in Vineland and across South Jersey.”