Five members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation are endorsing Sue Altman, the presumptive Democratic nominee for New Jersey’s highly competitive 7th congressional district.
Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-Ewing), Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair), Donald Payne Jr. (D-Newark), Bill Pascrell (D-Paterson), and Frank Pallone (D-Long Branch) all said this morning that they’re supporting Altman, who has no Democratic primary opponents in the race to take on freshman GOP Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield).
“Sue Altman is a champion for organized labor, the rights of women, and working families,” Pascrell said. “And the path to the next Democratic majority depends on sending Sue Altman to Washington. It’s that simple. I support Sue and look forward to fighting next to her.”
Of course, it would be surprising if any New Jersey Democrat didn’t support Altman, now that she’s the Democratic standard-bearer in the state’s premier swing district. Altman was originally set to face a competitive contest for the Democratic nomination, but all of her opponents dropped out of the race before primary season really began, and no last-minute challengers came forward before the filing deadline on Monday.
Kean, for his part, has similarly unified Republicans behind his re-election bid, winning every county line uncontested and gaining an endorsement from new House Speaker Mike Johnson. Kean does face a primary challenge, though, from pro-Trump perennial candidate Roger Bacon.
Altman endorsement quotes
Watson Coleman: “For years, I’ve worked closely with Sue Altman to advocate for New Jersey’s working families across the state. I’m proud to stand with Sue, a leader who has a record fighting for fair wages, as we work to flip the House. I know she shares my commitment as a voice for equity of women, children, and other underserved members of our community.”
Sherrill: “Sue Altman is a proven fighter and will bring New Jersey values to Washington. She is the strong voice New Jersey needs to protect abortion access and fight for middle class tax relief by increasing Trump’s SALT deduction cap that has devastated Garden State families. New Jersey needs Sue Altman in Congress.”
Pallone: “I’m endorsing Sue Altman because I believe that she has the vision and dedication to serve her district and our state in Congress. Throughout her career, Sue has been a strong advocate for working families and played an important role in helping to tackle climate change and lower prescription drug costs. I know she’ll bring that same energy to Washington.”
Payne: “Sue Altman is someone I’ve worked with for several years – she is a fierce, principled advocate who will always put New Jerseyans first in Washington. Sue will work to hold polluters accountable and expand access to healthcare for working families and seniors across our state.”