One week remains before the June 4th Primary. Some key races to watch, especially against the backdrop of a controversial judge’s ruling on ballot bracketing, which could play havoc with the results:
Passaic County Sherrif: Democratic Primary
The Passaic County Democratic Committee backs newcomer Tom Adamo against former Sheriff Jerry Speziale for the job held by the late Richard Berdnik.
Once the darling of the Passaic Dems, Speziale ran afoul of Chairman John
Currie in the Christie era, detoured to Alabama, and reemerged as the police director for Paterson Mayor Jose “Joey” Torres. Bruce Springsteen with a badge, or so say his backers, Speziale remained at PD long after corruption flushed Torres out of office and Mayor Andre Sayegh assumed the reins of government.
Will Speziale’s name ID overcome the organization?
That’s the question in this intriguing matchup where Chairman Currie puts it all on the line to withstand an old nemesis.
Two colleagues, Assemblyman Herb Conaway and Assemblywoman Carol Murphy go head-to-head for the seat of U.S. Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ).
Well positioned to succeed indictment-pockmarked Bob Menendez, Kim is on the ballot as a Democratic Primary candidate for United States Senate.
Three party organizations (Burlington, Monmouth, and Mercer) picked veteran Conaway over Murphy, but a judge subsequently blew up the party lines, giving Murphy a shot.
Will Conaway’s impressive professional credentials, unique competence, and years of party service outweigh Team Campaign’s campaign prowess (the assemblywoman is married to veteran political operative Mike Muller)?
That’s the question in CD-3.
U.S. Senate: Republican Primary
Businessman Curtis Bashaw won the lion’s share of party lines in a statewide GOP tilt. But Mendham Twp. Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner subsequently received the Wildwood endorsement of former President Donald J. Trump.
Unlike the Democratic Primary, the party lines still apply in this GOP Primary season.
Can Bashaw withstand Trump, or is the cult-like status of an indicted former president who urged a mob to march on the U.S. Capitol to overturn the 2020 election too much to overcome?
CD-8 Congressional Race: Democratic Primary
Trying to drive through the toxic haze of his father’s corruption trial, U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez faces a challenge from Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla. As in other Democratic Primary contests, a judge’s decision to dispense with the organization lines on a legal challenge by Andy Kim could significantly impact this contest. Backed by the once powerful Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO), Menendez in past years might have been able to simply bank on the line to get him comfortably over the finish line.
But the combination of no conventional bracketing, an indicted father, and a well-financed challenger make this a real race, at least by the usually monolithic, organization-smothering standards of Hudson County.
The young Menendez trusts that he’s built enough goodwill to get through the crisis.
Perth Amboy Mayor
In Middlesex County’s most Democratic town, incumbent Helmin Caba will try to score a win for the
Middlesex County Democratic Organization. He faces two challengers: attorney Joe Vas, Jr. and Judge and former Council President Kenneth Gonzalez.
Again, as in Passaic, Hudson, and Essex (see below), the contest will test the degree to which the Middlesex Democratic machine can withstand the judge’s ruling in a partisan election season.
The departure to the state legislature by Assemblyman (and former Mayor) Mike Venezia sets up a showdown between interim Mayor Ted Gamble and Councilwoman Jenny Mundell. It’s complicated, but Mundell possesses the backing of the Essex County organization, while Gamble has put his chips on an organization-defying atmosphere.
Also, don’t forget the Toms River GOP Primary.
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As the June 4th primary elections approach, political enthusiasts and voters alike are gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal day in New Jersey politics. With a number of key races on the ballot, InsiderNJ has compiled a guide to the races to watch on June 4th.
One of the most closely watched races is the Democratic primary for governor. Incumbent Governor Phil Murphy faces a challenge from former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, who has been gaining momentum in recent weeks. The race has been marked by heated debates over issues such as taxes, education, and healthcare, making it a must-watch for political junkies.
In the race for U.S. Senate, incumbent Senator Cory Booker is facing a challenge from progressive activist Larry Hamm. Booker, who is considered a rising star in the Democratic Party, is expected to win re-election handily, but Hamm’s grassroots campaign has garnered attention from progressive voters.
Another race to watch is the Democratic primary for the 3rd Congressional District, where incumbent Congressman Andy Kim is facing a challenge from former Burlington County Freeholder Kate Gibbs. The race has been marked by negative ads and personal attacks, making it one of the most contentious races in the state.
In the Republican primary for the 2nd Congressional District, incumbent Congressman Jeff Van Drew is facing a challenge from conservative businessman David Richter. Van Drew, who famously switched parties from Democrat to Republican last year, is facing backlash from some conservative voters for his moderate views on issues such as gun control and immigration.
Overall, the June 4th primary promises to be an exciting day in New Jersey politics, with a number of key races that will shape the future of the state. Whether you’re a political junkie or just a concerned citizen, be sure to tune in and watch these races closely to see how they unfold.
