Hoboken 1st Ward Councilman Paul Presinzano is supporting U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez (D-8) for re-election, touting his record in Washington, D.C. while chiding Mayor Ravi Bhalla, the incumbent’s main opposition.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“In this crucial race for U.S. Congress, I am proud to endorse Rep. Rob Menendez for re-election. After witnessing years of divisive politics and power-hungry tactics from his opponent, the choice is clear. Rob has consistently delivered for the 8th District, making him the right choice for our community,” Presinzano said in a statement.
“As a Hoboken councilman, I have personally experienced Rob Menendez’s dedication. He always makes himself accessible and prioritizes the concerns of our community.”
Presinzano emphasized Menendez’s advocacy for infrastructure projects, economic development initiatives, gun safety, and women’s rights as examples of a successful first term in office.
He also specifically praised the congressman’s recent success in securing over $20 million for local projects in the 8th district, including funding for Hoboken for extreme weather preparedness and response, crucial for the city’s flood-prone areas.
“We have spent years watching our mayor run our city like a political campaign, chasing headlines, sowing political divisions and wasting taxpayer dollars. It would be a catastrophe if this behavior extended to the federal level,” Presinzano continued.
“Rob consistently delivers for us. His genuine dedication to public service and love for the community sets him apart from his opponents. Rep. Rob Menendez is a tested leader and champion for our community. I am confident he will continue effectively representing our interests in Congress.”
Presinzano’s endorsement is very much expected, with the split Hoboken City Council going in their anticipated different directions in this race.
Hoboken 2nd Ward Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher and 4th Ward Councilman Ruben Ramos, two potential mayoral candidates next year, backed Menendez, while Councilman-at-Large Joe Quintero and 5th Ward Councilman Phil Cohen are going with Bhalla.
Additionally, Presinzano essentially gave a de facto endorsement of Menendez on the March 27th episode of HCV Live & Uncut.
In New Jersey, the primary election is on June 4th and the 8th District congressional race also features first time candidate Kyle Jasey.
Bhalla’s is running on Dawn Zimmer’s record against Rob’s father. But neither Zimmer nor Bob Sr are actually on the ballot. Ravi ain’t Dawn and Rob Jr. ain’t Bob Sr. Bhalla is terrified voters will figure that out.