The New Jersey Legislature has one openly gay member, Republican Assemblyman Don Guardian (R-Atlantic City), and Democrats want to match that – and maybe exceed the number – with a record four LGBTQ candidates running for the Assembly this year.
That led the New Jersey Democratic State Committee LGBTQ Caucus to issue “special pride month endorsements” to the four candidates: Luanne Peterpaul in the 11th district, Raya Arbiol in the 12th, Paul Eschelbach in the 13th, and Diane Salvatore in the 25th.
“Our LGBTQ Caucus is proud to support these exceptional candidates who not only embody the values of the Democratic Party but also bring unique perspectives to the table, “ said Lauren Albrecht, the NJDSC LGBTQ Caucus chair “Their lived experiences as LGBTQ individuals will undoubtedly enhance our legislative representation and ensure that the voices of our community are heard loud and clear.”
Peterpaul, a former municipal court judge from Asbury Park, is running in one of the most competitive districts in the state against two Republican assemblywomen who defeated three-term incumbents in 2021.
“With their commitment to equality and social justice, Luanne, Raya, Paul, and Diane have demonstrated their dedication to making New Jersey a more inclusive and accepting place for all,’ stated NJDSC LGBTQ Caucus Vice Chair Joe Forte. “We are confident that they will work tirelessly to address the pressing issues facing our state and advance LGBTQ rights.”
Democrats have been without LGBTQ representation in the Assembly since 2018 when Reed Gusciora resigned to become the mayor of Trenton.
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