A political newcomer and economic development expert is the first Democratic candidate in a special election for the late Donald Payne’s 10th district congressional seat to launch a digital video ad.
Darryl Godfrey, a Murphy administration official, is one of eleven Democrats running in a July 16 special Democratic primary to fill the unexpired term of Payne, who died on April 24 at age 65.
His ad, “Barbara” pays tribute to his late mother, who raised five children alone in Newark’s West Ward, and touts his plan for affordable housing, enhanced access to health care, and quality jobs. The five-figure ad buy will include pre-roll, Connected TV, social media, and blast texting placements.
Script: “This was my mother, Barbara Godfrey. She raised me and my four siblings alone, working two or three jobs. Thanks to her, I got to go to college, start a career, and achieve some amazing life dreams. But for too many people, the dream of having a fulfilling life is becoming harder and harder. I’m running for Congress to change that, using my experience in revitalizing cities to deliver more affordable housing, better access to health care, and higher quality jobs. I’m Darrell Godfrey, a Democrat for Congress, and I approve this message. Thanks, Mom.”
In his first two weeks as a congressional candidate, Godfrey raised more than $100,000, including a $50,000 personal contribution to his campaign.
Godfrey helped lead Newark’s revitalization when Cory Booker was mayor and is now the chief operating officer of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority. He grew up in Newark and then lived in South Orange when it was part of the 10th district. He now lives in Morristown but plans to move back into the district.
Before joining the public sector in the economic development arena, Godfrey spent fifteen years in banking, working at JP Morgan Chase, GE Capital, Commerce Bank, Banco Popular, and First Fidelity Bank.
At Booker’s Brick City Development Corporation, the 62-year-old Godfrey played a key role in securing capital for underserved small businesses and created a $10 million technical assistance program funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration that helped more than 600 entrepreneurs and startups. He helped create a $4 million fund for small businesses with a donation from Prudential Insurance.
Newark Council President LaMonica McIver, former East Orange Councilwoman and Andy Kim campaign staffer Brittany Claybrooks, Hudson County Commissioner Jerry Walker, Linden Mayor Derek Armstead, former Payne staffer Shana Melius, law professor and election law expert Eugene Mazo, John Flora, Alberta Gordon, Sheila Montague, and Debra Salters are also in the race to fill the remainder of Payne’s term.
The winner of the July special primary will compete in a September 18 special election to fill Payne’s unexpired term. Republican Carmen Bucco is unopposed.