Another Republican drops Assembly bid in 39th

There’s one less candidate in the Republican primary for two State Assembly seats in the 39th district with the announcement today that Mahwah Councilman Ward Donigian has dropped out of the race and endorsed incumbents Bob Auth (R-Old Tappan) and John Azzariti, Jr. (R-Saddle River).

That leaves investment banker and former congressional candidate Frank Pallotta and Woodcliff Lake Mayor and former lieutenant governor candidate Carlos Rendo in the race against Auth and Azzariti.

“Party unity trumps everything. There is so much at stake this November for our state. Republicans need to back Republicans. President Trump carried the 39th district by just two points. It is critical we defend these two seats in an off-year cycle when they are most vulnerable,” Donigian said.  “The best way for Mahwah and all of District 39 to move forward is by unifying behind Auth and Azzariti.”

Saddle River Councilman John Kurpis dropped his Assembly bid last week and endorsed Auth and Azzariti.

Donigian has always backed Auth, and said he was running against Azzariti when he announced in November.