Murphy endorses Carstarphen in Camden

As expected, Gov. Phil Murphy has endorsed Vic Carstarphen for mayor of Camden, firmly aligning the governor with the Camden County Democratic organization line in Tuesday’s Democratic primary.

“Vic Carstarphen has a bold vision to lift up all of Camden’s residents and lead the city toward a brighter future,” Murphy said. “From housing and health care to community engagement and public education, he is an energetic thinker with the credibility to unify communities and tackle tough challenges while always putting Camden first.”

Carstarphen became mayor last month following the resignation of Francisco Moran.  He is seeking a four-year term in the primary against Elton Custis, a school board member who has the backing of some progressive groups, City Councilwoman Felicia Reyes-Morton, and teacher Luis Quinones.

Murphy joined Carstarphen in Camden on Tuesday for an official government event and said he was likely to endorse.

“Vic is the right leader at the right time to serve as Mayor of Camden,” Murphy said.

Carstarphen has received boosts this week from U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, Rep. Donald Norcross, and U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge.

A last-minute endorsement of Custis by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka fell through on Thursday.