The Hotel and Gaming Trades Council is backing Hudson County commissioner candidates Pam Johnson (D-3), who is unopposed, and Alex Valdez (D-9), who is in the only contested June 2nd Democratic primary race.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Pam and Alex are putting the priorities of working people first: affordable housing, greater economic opportunities, and safe streets,” HTC President Rich Maroko said in a statement.
“They’ve both been serving the community for years, and we are excited to see them take on this new challenge of public service. We are eager to see both Pam and Alex get to work in county government, and will be doing what we can to send them there.”
Johnson formally launched her campaign in February with the support of several electeds such as state Senator Angela McKnight (D-31), County Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2), and Jersey City Ward F Councilman Frank Gilmore, among many others, as HCV first reported.
She will succeed Commissioner Celeste Williams (D-3), who did not seek a full term after replacing Jerry Walker, who was sworn in as a state assemblyman in the 31st Legislative District in January.
“I am honored to have the support of the Hotel & Gaming Trades Council and the hardworking members they represent. HTC has long been a champion for working people, fighting for fair wages, safe workplaces, and dignity on the job,” Johnson added.
“That mission aligns closely with my own commitment to standing up for families across District 3. I look forward to partnering with HTC to ensure that county government continues to uplift and protect working residents, and I am deeply grateful for their trust and support.”
As for Valdez, he is making his second bid for county office after coming up short against Commissioner Al Cifelli (D-9) in 2023. Now, he and Johnson are two of nine consensus picks from Hudson County Democrats as Cifelli retires at the end of the year.
His opponents are Kearny Policemen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) President Mina Elkadious and Harrison 3rd Ward Councilman Larry Bennett.
“I’m proud to have the endorsement of the Hotel & Gaming Trades Council, a union that represents thousands of hospitality and gaming workers and has consistently led the fight for strong contracts, healthcare, and workplace protections,” noted Valdez.
“Their support underscores our shared commitment to protecting good union jobs and raising standards for workers across the region. Together, we’re fighting to ensure the people who power our hospitality and gaming industries can afford to live and thrive in the communities they serve.”
The HTC and the Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO) also backed U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez (D-8) early this year ahead of a June 2nd primary challenge from former Jersey City Board of Education President Mussab Ali.
“We are proud to receive the endorsement of President Rich Maroko and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council for Alex and Pam’s campaigns, for County Commissioner. Rich and the HTC are true difference-makers and their support in this campaign will provide a critically important boost to help make sure we have candidates who will fight every day for working men and women,” expressed HCDO Chair Craig Guy, also the county executive.
“Alex and Pam will be leaders in the fight to provide safe streets, affordable housing, and good work for fair pay, and those values are exactly why we are working every day to make sure they are successful this June 2nd.”
HTC represents hotel, club, racetrack, and casino workers in a region which includes NYC, Northern New Jersey, and Upstate New York. They also backed Ron Bautista for Hudson County commissioner (D-5) earlier this month in another uncontested race.