In some rare political fodder out of West Hudson, local Democratic party Chair Amy DeGise is backing East Newark Mayor Joe Smith ahead of a contested primary next month.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Mayor Smith has dedicated the past three decades of his life to serving the residents of East Newark. He has worked to stabilize taxes, revitalize neighborhoods and keep the community safe, while expanding senior programs and special events for our children,” DeGise said in a statement.
“Mayor Smith’s office door is always open and I know he is always ready to personally address any concerns or issues raised by his constituents. There is no person more compassionate or committed to moving East Newark forward than Mayor Smith, which is why I am wholeheartedly supporting him and his entire team this June.”
Smith, who is seeking his ninth term as mayor of the often forgotten about Hudson County borough, is facing a primary challenge from Dina Grilo.
The mayor, who hasn’t faced a Democratic challenger since 2003, is also running with two at-large council members, Jessica Diaz and Charles Tighe.
Grilo is not running alongside any council candidates, according to a list of primary candidates released by the county clerk’s office.
