Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop has expressed his disappointment over the decision of Establishment Democrats to endorse Tom Malinowski, a former Obama administration official, in the race for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. Fulop, who is also the chair of the Hudson County Democratic Organization, had endorsed Lisa Mandelblatt, a businesswoman and first-time candidate.
In a statement released on his Twitter account, Fulop said that he was “disappointed” by the decision of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) to endorse Malinowski. He added that the endorsement was “a slap in the face” to Mandelblatt and other candidates who had been working hard to win the nomination.
Fulop’s statement reflects a growing divide within the Democratic Party between Establishment Democrats, who are seen as more moderate and corporate-friendly, and progressive Democrats, who are pushing for more radical policies such as Medicare for All and a Green New Deal. The endorsement of Malinowski by the DCCC is seen as a victory for the Establishment wing of the party, which has been criticized for being out of touch with the concerns of ordinary Americans.
Malinowski, who served as Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor under President Obama, has been endorsed by several high-profile Democrats, including Senator Cory Booker and former Governor Jim Florio. He is seen as a strong candidate in the race for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, which is currently held by Republican Leonard Lance.
However, Mandelblatt has also gained support from progressive groups such as Our Revolution and Indivisible NJ-7. She has campaigned on a platform of affordable healthcare, gun control, and protecting women’s rights. Mandelblatt has also criticized Malinowski for his ties to Wall Street and his support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal.
The race for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District is one of several high-profile contests in the upcoming midterm elections. Democrats are hoping to take control of the House of Representatives in November, and the outcome of races like this one will be crucial in determining whether they are successful.
Fulop’s statement highlights the tensions within the Democratic Party as it seeks to balance the demands of its progressive base with the need to win elections. It remains to be seen whether Mandelblatt will be able to overcome Malinowski’s establishment support and win the nomination, but the race is sure to be closely watched by political observers across the country.
