Inganamort named to national GOP emerging leaders list

Assemblyman Mike Inganamort (R-Chester) was named to a national list of emerging Republican leaders on Wednesday.

Inganamort is one of 38 state Republican legislators named to GOPAC’s 2026 Class of Emerging Leaders, according to a release. The 42-year-old former mayor of Chester is the Legislature’s youngest Republican.

“I’m excited to join the 2026 Class of Emerging Leaders and compare the work we do in New Jersey to the experiences of legislators from other states,” said Inganamort. “While no state matches New Jersey’s tax burden, many are grappling with the consequences of excessive government spending. I’m looking forward to learning from colleagues nationwide and bringing back new ideas to help restore fiscal discipline and opportunity in our state.”

Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio nominated Inganamort for the program. Inaganamort first won election to the Assembly in 2023 and was on the shortlist of Republican Jack Ciattarelli’s potential lieutenant governor nominees last year. 

Assemblyman Paul Kanitra (R-Point Pleasant Beach) was named to the group last year. 

Delaware Gov. Pierre “Pete” du Pont founded GOPAC in 1978 to prepare Republicans for eventual congressional or statewide office campaigns.

“Our 2026 Class of Emerging Leaders is the next installment in our mission to build a roster of Republicans who are focused on ideas to make the lives of their constituents easier, safer, and better,” GOPAC Chairman David Avella said in a release. “Whether it is leading in their state legislative chamber or running for higher office in the future, we welcome being part of their development and success.”