Linden councilman withdraws support from mayor

A Linden Councilman says he no longer supports Mayor Derek Armstead’s re-election and will not run on his ticket in the June Democratic primary.

The loss of 9th Ward Councilman Armando Medina comes just as supporters of State Sen. Nicholas Scutari, the Union County Democratic chairman and the Linden Democratic Municipal Chairman, prepare to drop Armstead from the organization line.  Armstead backed Colleen Mahr for county chair in her race against Scutari last month.

“A few weeks ago, I announced I would run as part of a team headed by Mayor Armstead. Since then, I have heard from many residents and supporters who have expressed their concern about that decision. Specifically, they felt joining the Mayor’s team compromised that independence,” said Medina.  “After much reflection I have decided not to run on the slate headed by Mayor Armstead and withdraw my support for his slate. I wish them luck in the June Primary.”