Another Republican mulls bid for DiMaio’s seat

A Bridgewater councilman says he is exploring a bid for John DiMaio’s Assembly seat in the 23rd district.

Filipe Pedroso says he’s “seriously considering” a bid for the seat once Doug Steinhardt assumes the U.S. Attorney post and DiMaio replaces him in the State Senate.

“I have always been a voice for the people I serve. Whether it was defending President Trump from political persecution, fighting against reckless overdevelopment and developers, or opposing burdensome tax hikes, I have never hesitated to speak up and act,” said Pedroso, a four-term councilman.  “Leadership is about conviction, and I have always led with courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to our conservative principles.”

The potential field of candidates for DiMaio’s seat includes Bridgewater Mayor Matt Moench, Warren County Commissioner James Kern, and Raritan Mayor Nicholas Carra.

Steinhardt has emerged as President Donald Trump’s choice for the top federal prosecutor post, and DiMaio appears to have cleared the field for the Senate.  But the process cannot begin until Steinhardt resigns from the Senate.