Currie to seek re-election as Passaic Democratic chair

Longtime Passaic County Democratic Chairman John Currie is seeking another term, he announced Thursday morning. 

Currie, a former chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee, has led the Passaic Democrats for more than 35 years. Democrats control every countywide office in Passaic, and

“At a time when our democracy, our values, and many of our communities continue to face unprecedented challenges from Donald Trump and the MAGA movement, Democrats must remain organized, united, and focused on the people we serve,” Currie said.

Currie has won two sets of competitive primaries without the county line. On Tuesday, his slate of county candidates fended off a progressive challenger who had the backing of Senator Bernie Sanders. In 2024, Passaic Democrats fought off an aggressive, well-financed challenge from Jerry Speziale, who was trying to regain the Sheriff’s office he held from 2001 to 2011. Last year, though, the organization lost an Assembly primary in the 35th district to Kenyatta Stewart.

“Our success has come from unity, hard work, and a shared belief in Democratic values,” Currie said. “The work is not finished. There is too much at stake for Democrats to take anything for granted.”

Currie has the backing of Democratic leaders from every municipality in the county, he announced. The reorganization meeting is expected to be held later this month.

“I have had the privilege of working alongside John Currie for more than thirty years and have come to know him as both an exceptional leader and a trusted friend,” said North Haledon Democratic Leader Anthony DeNova, retired Passaic County administrator. “John leads with integrity, brings people together, and never loses sight of the people we serve.”