Hudson County Commissioner Al Cifelli (D-9) is backing Harrison Councilman Larry Bennett to succeed him in a three-person Democratic primary on June 2nd.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I’ve been doing this for nearly 30 years and it’s time to move on. Larry’s great at constituent services and answering people’s calls and needs. He reminds me of me,” Cifelli said in a statement.
“This is why I’m running for county commissioner. I get great joy from helping people—and I always have. Whether someone is in need of county services or housing, I’ve prided myself on being as helpful as possible,” added Bennett.
Bennett is also expected to get support from Harrison Mayor James Fife and East Newark Mayor Dina Grillo.
Alex Valdez, who was defeated by Cifelli in 2023, is running with the support of Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO) Chair Craig Guy, Jersey City Mayor James Solomon, Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, and Secaucus Mayor Mike Gonnelli.
He is one of nine consensus picks among prominent Hudson County Democrats, though is the only one who has to fight for the seat.
Additionally, Valdez has recently picked up support from the New Jersey Working Families Party, CWA District 1, and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council.
The third candidate in the race is Kearny Policemen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) President Mina Elkadious.
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