Macurdy launches new campaign video for Assembly bid

Democrat Andrew Macurdy, a former state and federal, kicked off his campaign to unseat Republican Assemblywomen Nancy Muñoz (R-Summit) and Michele Matsikoudis (R-New Providence) in the 21st district on Saturday, with almost 100 people gathering at the Bull n Bear Brewery in Summit.

The 38-year-old Harvard Law graduate clerked for two federal judges, served as an Assistant Hudson County Prosecutor and Assistant U.S. Attorney, and as counsel to two Democratic attorneys general.  In his first six weeks as a candidate, he raised $94,000.

“I know firsthand what it takes to lead a community, listen to residents, and make thoughtful decisions that improve people’s lives,” said former Summit Mayor Nora Radest.  “Andrew has those qualities—and more. I hope you’ll join me in voting for him to bring real leadership to Trenton.”

He also received an endorsement from Jennifer Rowland, the deputy mayor of Chatham Township.

“We need smart and thoughtful leaders for our district in the state legislature, especially with the chaos of our federal government,” she said.  “Andrew is someone who will fight for our residents and help solve problems.”

Macurdy touts his life story and outlines what he’s like to accomplish in the legislature in a 60-second launch video.

Script: “We’ve heard it said throughout our lives.  ‘That’s just Jersey politics.’  Well, I’m tired of being disappointed by elected officials. My name is Andrew Macurdy.  I went to the same New Jersey public schools my mom did.  My parents taught me that if you work hard and practice, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. I became a prosecutor, and I learned firsthand what it takes to make our communities safer.  I’ve seen what efficient and effective government can accomplish.  I designed a program pairing police with mental health workers that’s been adopted by towns across the state.  We live in a place that every day becomes harder and harder to afford.  Where NJ Transit lets us down and the costs of childcare burden families. We have representatives in this District who avoid voting on bills that matter.  Protecting a woman’s right to choose.  Banning large capacity ammo magazines.  We cannot leave the direction of our state to this dysfunctional status quo.  I’m running for Assembly in the 21st District, the place where I am raising my family, because I want to protect the future for my son and daughter and for families across New Jersey.  The time for change is now.”

Macurdy comes from a military family: his grandfather was a World War II fighter pilot who was shot down and survived for months behind enemy lines before being rescued.  His father is a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate and military pilot.

A political newcomer, he was an early donor to Rep. Andy Kim’s bid for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, and hosted canvas launches from his home for Kim and congressional candidate Sue Altman during the primary and general elections.

Democrats haven’t won the Union County-based 21st district since 1989, but it’s becoming increasingly bluer.  Kamala Harris carried the district by over twelve percentage points last fall; Biden won it by over seventeen points in 2020, and Clinton took it by almost eight points in 2016.

In 2021, Gov. Phil Murphy and his Republican opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, nearly tied in the 21st: Ciattarelli took the district by 290 votes, 49.8% to 48.5%.