Three Bergen senators back Sweeney for re-election as Senate President

Three Bergen County Democratic senators today endorsed Steve Sweeney for re-election as Senate President for a term that would begin in 2022, a move that comes as some Democrats mull a challenge for one of the most powerful posts in New Jersey.

Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg (D-Teaneck), Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee Chairman Paul Sarlo (D-Wood-Ridge) and Joseph Lagana (D-Paramus) give Sweeney an additional three votes in his bid to remain as Senate President.

“New Jersey, like the rest of the country, is facing unprecedented times — a deep recession promoted by a global pandemic and significant social justice reforms that must be implemented as part of any recovery,” the three senators said in a statement from the Senate President.  “That is exactly why we need Steve Sweeney serving as President of the Senate. He has consistently fought for what matters the most to the people of New Jersey.”

Sweeney has been actively seeking support to remain as Senate President after the 2021 general election.   It’s not immediately clear if he has commitments from a majority of his caucus, but the movement of three Bergen senators serves as a critical block of votes if Sweeney wants to hold his post.

The South Jersey Democrat has been Senate President since 2010, when he wrestled the job away from incumbent Richard Codey (D-Roseland).  Weinberg and Sarlo backed him in that race.

“From expanding paid medical leave, increasing the minimum wage, expanding protections and services for developmentally disabled individuals and their families, to fighting for fair funding for every school, Steve has been more than just the leader of the Senate, he has been a leader for New Jersey,” said Weinberg, Sarlo and Lagana.  “We are proud to have supported him in the past and will do so again in the future.”

Sweeney starts out with a block of five votes in South Jersey — possibly six, if State Sen. Dawn Addiego (D-Evesham) wins re-election in 2021.

Sweeney is the longest-serving Senate President in New Jersey history.