Two Union County Democratic state senators who have not always gotten along have entered into a peace treaty that ends any likelihood of raucous primaries in 2021.
Joseph Cryan (D-Elizabeth) and Nicholas Scutari (D-Linden) have agreed to support each other for re-election in next year’s Democratic primary.
“Nick and I share the same progressive ideals, the same common sense approach to government, and a deep commitment to basic fairness for people,” Cryan said. “I look forward to working alongside him in the State Senate in 2021 and beyond.”
Cryan will also nominate Scutari for another term as the Union County Democratic Chairman.
“I greatly respect Joe and have worked with him on important legislation, including Daniel’s Law, which was just signed by Governor Murphy last Friday,” said Scutari. “His cooperation and insight are routinely sought by myself and my colleagues in Trenton. I’m proud to offer him my support and look forward to extending our partnership going forward.”
The détente between Cryan and Scutari also paves the way for Gov. Phil Murphy to run on the Union County Democratic organization line with both senators.
Cryan praised Scutari’s tenure as county chairman, a post he won in 2018 against a candidate backed by Cryan.
“Under Nick’s leadership, Democrats across Union County have seen our party grow. Democratic success in Union County is not just at the ballot box, but also in the character of the leaders the Party has helped elect at all levels,” stated Cryan. “I am proud to pledge my support to Nick so he can continue to build an open, diverse, and engaged Democratic Party in Union County.”
Scutari was first elected to the Senate in 2003 and is the longest-serving Senate Judiciary Committee chairman in New Jersey history.
Cryan won the Senate seat in 2017 after serving as Assembly Majority Leader, Democratic State Chairman and Union County Sheriff.
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