The Fulop for Governor campaign is announcing two more Assembly candidates who will run alongside Democratic gubernatorial candidate Steven Fulop in next year’s Primary Election. Frank Vélez III and Brittany Claybrooks will run for State Assembly in the 34th Legislative District in Essex County. With this announcement, Team Fulop has now recruited 14 Democratic candidates running in districts throughout the state.
“Frank and Brittany have been successful, even without having resources to compete with the big political bosses in New Jersey,” said Mayor Fulop. “The resource gap is about to change and I think they will be successful, not only in this campaign, but in helping to change NJ. These two leaders do the work on the ground and make an impact without fanfare. Brittany was building with Andy Kim when few thought he could win and Frank has broken down barriers when people thought someone that young wouldn’t have a shot. We have two future stars here in the New Jersey Democratic Party and i couldn’t be more honored to support and run with them.”
A lifelong resident of Belleville, Councilman Frank Vélez III served a full 3-year term on the Belleville Board of Education, where he fought for better services for special needs families, students, parents, and staff. As Councilman, Frank is working to boost recreation opportunities for children, families, and seniors, stabilize taxes, and invest in local businesses. Frank also worked as District Staff Assistant for the late Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr. His priority, without question, is the interests of everyday residents.
“I’ve spent my career working to advocate for the families of my community. I’m excited to join a campaign that is committed to breaking away from the party boss mentality to fight for our residents instead,” said Councilman Vélez. “Our New Jersey families deserve candidates who will unite our voters and bring real and much-needed change to our government.”
A former Councilwoman in East Orange, Brittany Claybrooks served as the Director of the Division of Planning for the City of Plainfield and was the North Jersey Political Director for Congressman Andy Kim in his recent Senate Race. Brittany has dedicated her career to public service. She has worked in organizations like the national non-profit Young Invincibles, which contributed to the Affordable Care Act and continues to advocate for improvements in higher education, health, economic development, and parenting initiatives for millennial Americans.
“Government is meant to make life better, and it’s meant to make life easier,” said Brittany Claybrooks. “I am thrilled to be part of the Fulop campaign, as we share the same values such as making our public system transparent and accountable and serving every resident in this great state.”
With this announcement, Claybrooks and Vélez join Team Fulop Assembly candidates including Tamar Warburg (LD-37), Daniel Park (LD-37), Lisa Bonanno (LD-2), Brian K. Everett (LD-4), Rashan Prailow (LD-5), Rebecca Holloway (LD-6), Kevin Ryan (LD-6), Eddie Freeman III (LD-8), Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato (LD-31), Assemblyman John Allen (LD-32), Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez (LD-32) and Assemblyman Julio Marenco (LD-33) in aligning with Mayor Fulop in the 2025 Primary Election.
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Team Fulop, led by Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, has recently revealed their candidates for the District 34 State Assembly race. The team is backing two strong contenders who they believe will bring fresh perspectives and strong leadership to the state legislature.
The first candidate is Raj Mukherji, who currently serves as a State Assemblyman representing District 33. Mukherji has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies and has a proven track record of fighting for his constituents. He has worked tirelessly to improve education, healthcare, and affordable housing in his district, and his experience and dedication make him a strong candidate for re-election.
The second candidate is Angela McKnight, who currently serves as a State Assemblywoman representing District 31. McKnight has a background in social work and has been a fierce advocate for children, families, and seniors in her community. She has worked to improve access to healthcare, expand affordable housing options, and support small businesses in her district. McKnight’s passion for serving her constituents and her commitment to social justice make her a valuable addition to Team Fulop.
Mayor Fulop and his team are confident that Mukherji and McKnight will bring fresh ideas and strong leadership to the State Assembly. They believe that these candidates will work tirelessly to address the pressing issues facing their constituents, including affordable housing, healthcare access, and economic development.
The District 34 State Assembly race is shaping up to be a competitive one, with several candidates vying for the two available seats. However, Team Fulop’s endorsement of Mukherji and McKnight gives them a significant advantage in the race. With their proven track records of advocacy and dedication to their communities, these candidates are well-positioned to represent the interests of District 34 residents in the state legislature.
Overall, Team Fulop’s announcement of their candidates for the District 34 State Assembly race is an exciting development in New Jersey politics. Mukherji and McKnight bring a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to serving their constituents, and they are sure to make a positive impact in the state legislature if elected. Voters in District 34 should pay close attention to these candidates and consider giving them their support in the upcoming election.
