Matt Moench will seek DiMaio’s Assembly seat in 23rd district

Bridgewater Mayor Matthew Moench will seek the Republican nomination for State Assembly in the 23rd legislative district, clearing the field for John DiMaio, the Assembly Minority Leader, to replace Doug Steinhardt in the State Senate.

Steinhardt is President Donald Trump’s pick for U.S. Attorney, a post that will necessitate his resignation from the Senate.

“As a new generation of conservative leadership, I am committed to shaking up the old, tired systems in Trenton and breathing new life into state government,” Moench said.  “Our campaign will stand for fiscal discipline, public safety, and bold solutions rooted in conservative values.”

As an Assembly candidate, Moench said New Jerseyans deserve leaders who will stand up for our children and families, and fight for the values that make our communities strong.”

Moench spent twelve years as a Bridgewater councilman before ousting Mayor Dan Hayes – now a Democrat – in the 2019 GOP primary, and easily won two general elections.  He’s a former assistant commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, served as deputy chief of staff to the governor, and as an aide to then-State Sen. Kevin O’Toole.

DiMaio quickly said he would seek Steinhardt’s Senate seat once it opened up.

If Moench becomes the Republican nominee, he will become the first GOP assemblyman from Somerset County since Jack Ciattarelli left the legislature after the 2017 election.

Somerset represents 38% of the 23rd district; Warren is 40%, and Hunterdon is 22%.  Assemblyman Erik Peterson (R-Franklin), the Hunterdon candidate, is seeking re-election.

It’s not yet clear when Steinhardt will assume his federal post, and that affects the election timeline.

Moench praised Steinhardt for his “unwavering commitment to our district and his steadfast conservative leadership.”

“His appointment as the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey is a testament to his integrity, dedication, and the values he has upheld while serving our community,” he said.  “I am proud to have worked alongside him and wish him great success in this new role.”