Risley will remain in District 2 Assembly race

Atlantic County Commissioner John Risley is planning to continue his bid for State Assembly, eschewing a chance to succeed fellow Republican Christopher Brown, who announced today that he would not seek re-election.

Risley came within 986 votes of ousting Assemblyman John Armato (D-Buena) in 2019 and is sticking with his original plan for a rematch.

“I’m not enamored with the ones who are there,” Risley said of Democrats Armato and Vince Mazzeo (D-Northfield).  “They have been speechless and spineless.  My criticism has been right all along.  They don’t fight for this area.”

Risley faces Atlantic City Councilman Jesse O. Kurtz and former Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian for the GOP organization line for Assembly.

Guardian and former Assemblyman Vince Polistina (R-Egg Harbor Township) are considering runs for the Senate.

Risley didn’t completely dismiss a Senate run and said he has no preference right now on Brown’s replacement.

“I always keep doors open,” he told the New Jersey Globe.  “I will be available for my party for any positions that come up in the future.”