Space rules out challenge to Gottheimer

Assemblyman Parker Space on Thursday ruled out a challenge against Rep. Josh Gottheimer.

“It’s not even on my radar. The last place I want to hang my hat is in D.C.,” Space said. “I give anybody a lot of credit that wants to run for it, but that’s just not me. We have a farm. We have a business, and I gotta be there for that.”

Space said that some had sought to push him to run.

“I know lots of people have asked me about it and try to encourage you to do it, but no,” he said.

Former Cresskill councilman John McCann, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali, and former investment banker Frank Pallotta have already announced their intention to challenge Gottheimer.

Jon Dalrymple, Jr., a 29-year-old student at Warren County Community College, has formed a committee to explore a challenge to the two-term congressman.

Assemblyman Hal Wirths, Space’s running mate, on Thursday said he had no intention of challenging the two-term congressman.