Two labor unions have endorsed Assemblywoman Shavona Sumter (D-Paterson) for the Democratic nomination for Congress in New Jersey’s 9th district.
CWA Local 1037 and Retail Wholesale Department Store Union Local 108 said on Sunday that they would back Sumter, a seven-term assemblywoman representing parts of Passaic and Bergen counties, for the seat left vacant last week by the death of Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-Paterson) at age 87.
Jennifer McClellan, a freshman congresswoman from Virginia, also announced her endorsement of Sumter.
“Her tireless commitment to the people of New Jersey and her exceptional leadership in the General Assembly are unparalleled,” McClellan said. “Assemblywoman Sumter has a proven ability to address pressing issues such as women’s rights, economic equity, and social justice, making her the ideal candidate.”
Democratic county committee members in the 9th district will meet Thursday night to select a new candidate to replace Pascrell on the general election ballot. State Sen. Nellie Pou (D-North Haledon), Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly (D-Paterson), and Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh are also seeking the nomination.
The winner will face Republican Billy Prempeh, a U.S. Air Force veteran who was making his third challenge to Pascrell.