The New Jersey Education Association has endorsed Rep. Andy Kim (D-Moorestown) in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary.
“Andy Kim has been an outstanding representative for the people of New Jersey’s 3rd congressional district,” said NJEA President Sean Spiller, Vice President Steve Beatty, and Secretary-Treasurer Petal Robertson. “A proud graduate of New Jersey’s public schools, he truly stands for the values and ideals that we all work to instill in our students: pride in themselves, pride in our country, and a deep dedication to doing what is right, regardless of what everyone else may be doing.”
This is the fourth time the state’s largest public employee union has endorsed Kim. After supporting Republican Rep. Tom McArthur (R-Toms River) for a second term in 2016, the NJEA instead went with Kim in 2018. Kim, a former Obama White House staffer, ousted McArthur by 3,973 votes, 50%-49%, in a district Donald Trump carried twice.
“He will be a staunch advocate for public education in the U.S. Senate and will undoubtedly make all of us here in New Jersey proud to have him representing us, alongside Sen. Cory Booker,” the three NJEA leaders said.
Kim has touted his support of the Rebuild America’s School Act, and for better pay for teachers.
“Our public school teachers helped shape who I am today, and it’s an honor to have their support,” he said. “I look forward to working alongside NJEA members to strengthen the quality of our schools in all parts of our state and to elevate the voices of our teachers and education support professionals.”