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NEW JERSEY LCV ENDORSES CANDIDATES IN 2023 STATE LEGISLATIVE ELECTION
TRENTON, NJ - New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (New Jersey LCV), the political voice for the environment, announced their slate of endorsements for the 2023 New Jersey legislative elections, encompassing 56 candidates across 24 districts of which 40% are women and 26% are candidates of color. New Jersey LCV works to elect viable candidates, without regard to party affiliation, who have demonstrated an active or affirmative willingness and capacity to advance New Jersey LCV’s pro-environment priorities.
“We could not be prouder of the dedicated, pro-environment leaders in this round of legislative endorsements, and we look forward to electing them to office and working together to build a more equitable and sustainable clean energy future for our children and grandchildren,” said Allison McLeod, Senior Policy Director, New Jersey LCV. “Codifying 100% clean energy by 2035, advancing offshore wind, and strengthening our democracy are all on the ballot. That’s why it’s important that every registered voter participate and support these environmental champions.”
New Jersey LCV has endorsed the following candidates for the General Election on November 7, 2023:
New Jersey LCV State Legislative Endorsements
● New Jersey’s 2nd Legislative District:
o Caren Fitzpatrick for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 3rd Legislative District:
o John Burzichelli for State Senate
o Heather Simmons for State Assembly
o Dave Bailey for State Assembly
● New Jersey’s 4th Legislative District:
o Paul Moriarty for State Senate
o Cody Miller for State Assembly
o Dan Hutchison for State Assembly
● New Jersey’s 6th Legislative District:
o Assemblyman Lou Greenwald
o Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt
● New Jersey’s 7th Legislative District:
o Senator Troy Singleton
o Assemblyman Herb Conaway
o Assemblywoman Carol Murphy
● New Jersey’s 8th Legislative District:
o Heather Cooper for Senate
o Andrea Katz for Assembly
o Anthony Angelozzi for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 9th Legislative District:
o Gabriel Franco for Senate
o Joseph Atura for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 11th Legislative District:
o Senator Vin Gopal
o Luanne Peterpaul for State Assembly
o Margie Donlon for State Assembly
● New Jersey’s 12th Legislative District:
o Assemblyman Robert Clifton
● New Jersey’s 14th Legislative District:
o Senator Linda Greenstein
o Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo
o Tennille McCoy for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 15th Legislative District:
o Senator Shirley Turner
o Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson
o Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli
● New Jersey’s 16th Legislative District:
o Senator Andrew Zwicker
o Assemblyman Roy Freiman
o Mitchelle Drulis for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 17th Legislative District:
o Senator Bob Smith
o Assemblyman Joseph Danielsen
● New Jersey’s 18th Legislative District:
o Senator Patrick Diegnan
o Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak
o Assemblyman Sterley Stanley
● New Jersey’s 19th Legislative District:
o Assemblyman Craig Coughlin
● New Jersey’s 22nd Legislative District:
o Senator Nick Scutari
o Assemblywoman Linda Carter
o Assemblyman James Kennedy
● New Jersey’s 25th Legislative District:
o Christine Clarke for Senate
● New Jersey’s 27th Legislative District:
o Former Governor and Senator Richard Codey
o Assemblyman John McKeon
o Allixon Collazos-Gill for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 28th Legislative District:
o Garnett Hall for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 32nd Legislative District:
o Raj Mukherji for Senate
o John Allen for Assembly
o Jessica Ramirez for Assembly
● New Jersey’s 34th Legislative District:
o Britnee Timberlake for Senate
● New Jersey’s 36th Legislative District:
o Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese
o Assemblyman Gary Schaer
● New Jersey’s 37th Legislative District:
o Senator Gordon Johnson
o Assemblywoman Shama Haider
o Assemblywoman Ellen Park
● New Jersey’s 38th Legislative District:
o Senator Joseph Lagana
o Assemblywoman Lisa Swain
o Assemblywoman Christopher Tully
“Earning a New Jersey LCV endorsement is not to be taken lightly. Through our multi-step evaluation process, we review candidates’ environmental credentials and vision for the state,” said Julia Somers, New Jersey LCV Board Chair. “The environment matters, and through our electoral efforts, New Jersey LCV will continue to support our leaders in Trenton on the issues that matter - such as climate change, clean energy, and environmental justice.”
A full list of the endorsements can be found on New Jersey LCV’s website here.
Quotes from the Candidates:
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Caren Fitzpatrick for Assembly - “I am greatly appreciative to have the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and their membership as I share a deep passion to fight against the threat of climate change and make New Jersey a world leader by growing our investment in offshore wind production.”
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John Burzichelli for Senate
Heather Simmons and Dave Bailey for Assembly
“We are honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV and their membership as we share a commitment to combat the threat of climate change, support growing offshore wind energy production in South Jersey to establish our region as a national leader and promote a pro-conservation agenda at the State Capitol.”
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Dan Hutchison for Assembly - “I am a father of four, an attorney, and a five-term Gloucester Township Councilman. As a bankruptcy attorney, I have dedicated my career to helping people cope with difficult financial times. During my 27-year career, I have helped over 7500 people save their homes and cars and obtain relief from crushing debt. I also serve as the Gloucester County Regional Coordinator for the Financial Literacy Program visiting high schools throughout Camden and Gloucester Counties to discuss the pitfalls of obtaining and using credit unwisely. I understand the challenges our families deal with at the kitchen table. My work as an attorney working with families to find their way back from financial hardship drives me to make a difference for our South Jersey residents. These experiences have given me a unique vantage point about making New Jersey more affordable. As families struggle with rising costs, higher taxes, and income not keeping pace, we need sound fiscal policies that support our small business owners, bolster our economy and create opportunities for success in South Jersey.”
Cody Miller for Assembly - “We must lower the government's cost while ensuring that residents get the highest quality of services they deserve and embrace policies to make our state more affordable. When you cut through the partisan divisions and focus on the needs of residents, you can make real progress. I've seen it firsthand as we held the line on taxation at the Monroe Board of Education while expanding pre-k and made smart strategic investments to lower energy costs on consumers at the town hall in Monroe. Together, we can do more with less and make South Jersey an even better place to call home. I was raised by a single mom of four, and I am a proud first-generation college graduate who worked my way through college. I am pursuing my Doctorate of Higher Education Leadership at Rowan University, and have served as a volunteer firefighter with Williamstown Fire Company #1 for 10 years.”
Paul Moriarty, current Assemblyman for Senate - “I have a proven track record supporting legislation for increased education funding, property tax relief, open government, and eliminating waste and inefficiency. I take great pride in working every day to fight for South Jersey. Our state is facing an affordability crisis; our residents, seniors, veterans, and small business owners need smart public policies that understand the challenges they encounter. As political divisions run hot in our country and community, I will continue to be a consensus builder who will fight to make a difference and thwart divisive politics to get things done for you.”
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Assemblyman Lou Greenwald - "I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters for the 2023 General Election. Working together we are able to champion sound environmental policies that will ensure a bright future for all of us."
Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt - "I am thrilled to have earned the endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters. I am committed to advocating for strong environmental policies and preserving our natural resources. Together we can work towards a greener and more sustainable future."
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Senator Troy Singleton - "I am honored to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters which acknowledges my legislative efforts to ensure that everyone – regardless of their zip codes or income – has access to clean air, clean water, and clean energy.”
Assemblyman Herb Conaway - "Over the years I have been proud to work with New Jersey LCV and other members of the environmental community to improve protections in the Garden State. As a physician I know that public health is inextricably linked to our surroundings. Be it the water we drink or the air we breathe - I am proud to work with these champions to improve the lives of New Jersey residents."
Assemblywoman Carol Murphy - “I’m honored to have the support of the New Jersey LCV as we have a shared commitment to combat climate change by charting a renewable energy future to protect our families.”
LD 8
Heather Cooper for Senate
Anthony Angelozzi and Andrea Katz for Assembly
“We greatly appreciate the endorsement of New Jersey LCV. We share the same commitment to fighting against the threat of climate change and working to make New Jersey a world leader through investment in renewable energy projects.”
LD 9
Gabriel Franco for Senate - “I'm honored and sincerely grateful for the endorsement from New Jersey LCV. This support underlines our common goal: a sustainable, vibrant future where the well-being of our planet is as integral to progress as the prosperity of its people. Backed by the LCV, we're committed to working hard, and bringing innovative and positive change to New Jersey. Thanks for believing in our vision and joining us on this journey towards a future we can all believe in.”
Joseph Atura for Assembly - “I love New Jersey. I was born in Jersey City, and raised down the shore. I've spent my entire life living in and traveling around NJ. I've always loved and been amazed at how many different environments Jersey offers. From North Jersey forming the gateway into Manhattan, to the shore, to rolling hills of horse ranches, to farming (we're not called The Garden State for nothing), to the Delaware Water Gap, to High Point, New Jersey packs a lot into a comparatively small piece of geography. Economic development is always important, but must adhere to a plan for growth that preserves open spaces and natural environments. We live in the most densely populated state in our country. Open space is necessary as a matter of public health. If I have the opportunity to vote on a piece of legislation, I'll always vote for a balance between the twin priorities of economic growth, open spaces, and a healthy environment. To that end, I will advocate for increased support for, and expansion of, mass transit, electric cars, and green energy.”
LD 11
Senator Vin Gopal
Margie Donlon and Luanne Peterpaul for Assembly
“We are beyond honored to have received the endorsement from The League of Conservation Voters. Protecting and preserving Monmouth County’s environment is vital to our coastal community's success for future generations. To earn the confidence of one of the foremost environmental organizations is proof that our environmental priorities align with those who know best - we won’t let you down!”
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Assemblyman Robert Clifton - “I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV. I look forward to working with them to improve New Jersey’s environment.”
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Senator Linda Greenstein - “New Jersey would not be one of the nation’s environmental leaders without the partnership of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. I am honored to again receive their endorsement as I run for re-election to the New Jersey State Senate this year, and I look forward to our continued partnership.”
Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo - "I am proud to stand for clean energy, safe drinking water, and fighting climate change. Thank you to New Jersey LCV for endorsing my campaign!"
Tennille McCoy for Assembly - "I'm proud to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV. Protecting a healthy environment for our constituents in the 14th District is a top priority for me. Together we can build a state where everyone has access to clean air, clean water, and affordable clean energy."
LD 15
Senator Turner- “I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV and look forward to continuing the great work that we have achieved to make environmental conservation and environmental justice a top priority in New Jersey.”
Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli - "I’m proud to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters! We only have one planet—a single shared backyard of the world, so to speak. And it is on us as state level elected officials to ensure that we have laws in New Jersey that do everything possible to protect the natural world around us. It is home to plants, wildlife, and most importantly us humans. Thank you New Jersey LVC for your endorsement and I look forward to voters reflecting on my record and seeing the promises I made put into practice.``
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson - "I am thrilled, honored and humbled to receive an endorsement from New Jersey LCV for my campaign. As an elected individual, I have always been committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainability, and I am proud to share these values with the members of New Jersey LCV."
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Senator Andrew Zwicker - “I am so grateful to have the League of Conservation Voters support. As a scientist, my entire career has focused on the development of renewable energy and an evidence-based approach to our most critical issues. We can and must pursue clean energy in New Jersey for the future of our families. I will continue to champion environmental protections in my public service.”
Assemblyman Roy Freiman- “I chose to raise my family in Central Jersey because of our beautiful natural areas, which is why the New Jersey LCV’s endorsement means so much to me. As Chair of the Agriculture and Food Security Committee, I know how many New Jersey families depend on us to protect our environment. I am proud to have the LCV’s endorsement as I continue that work.”
Mitchelle Drulis for Assembly - “New Jersey’s families, and our children in particular, can count on me to be a fierce fighter and advocate to protect our State’s precious natural resources. During these exceedingly complicated times of needed climate action to combat the effects of legacy pollution, I am honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV.”
LD 17
Senator Bob Smith - “I look forward to working with New Jersey LCV to resolve the climate change challenges affecting our state.”
Assemblyman Joe Danielsen - "I am extremely honored and gratified to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV. It is our responsibility as stewards of the planet to maintain and improve the environmental quality of our planet from any global erosion or crises it may face. The work of New Jersey LCV is essential to that goal of environmental stewardship, and I look forward to working with them to ensure that we leave for the next generation a better world."
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Senator Patrick Diegnan - “I am honored to receive the endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Now, more than ever, protecting our environment must be our top priority. I look forward to continuing to work with the New Jersey LCV to achieve that goal."
Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak - “It is an honor to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and a validation of my commitment to protecting the environment and preserving New Jersey's natural resources. As Chair of the Special Committee of Infrastructure and Natural Resources, I am proud to stand with NJCLV in advocating for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of our communities and our planet. Together, we will work to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.”
Assemblyman Sterley Stanley - “I am incredibly proud to once again receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. New Jersey LCV is an organization I have worked with on countless occasions in order to craft legislation that moves our state towards the more resilient and sustainable future that the years ahead demand from our State Government. I am looking forward to securing your vote so that I can return to the New Jersey General Assembly and continue to advocate for our collective priorities for our shared future.”
LD 25
Christine Clarke for Senate - "I’m honored and grateful to receive an endorsement from New Jersey LCV. This endorsement highlights our shared commitment to a sustainable future and the well-being of our communities. Together, with the support of LCV, we will work tirelessly to bring innovative solutions and positive change to New Jersey. Thank you for believing in our vision and for joining us in the pursuit of a brighter future for all."
LD 28
Garnett Hall for Assembly - "I am ecstatic to be endorsed by New Jersey LCV and look forward to cleaning up many rivers together."
LD 32
Raj Mukherji, current Assemblyman for Senate
John Allen & Jessica Ramirez for Assembly
"We are thrilled to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. As state lawmakers, we will fight for stronger environmental protections to ensure all New Jerseyans have clean air to breathe and safe water to drink, and we will fight to accelerate New Jersey’s efforts to combat the existential threat of climate change."
LD 34
Britnee Timberlake, current Assemblywoman for Senate
"I am beyond grateful that the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters has entrusted me with yet another endorsement. I won't let you or the environment down."
LD 36
Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese - “I am truly honored to be endorsed by New Jersey LCV for my fourth consecutive election. Since taking office in 2018, I have remained actively committed to the protection of our environment. I look forward to continuing to work with New Jersey LCV as we continue to advance New Jersey’s clean energy goals and leave a cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally sustainable New Jersey for future generations.”
Assemblyman Gary Schaer - "I am honored to receive an endorsement from New Jersey LCV and their thousands of members in the State of New Jersey. New Jersey LCV is a premier institution dedicated to safeguarding our natural resources and public spaces and I am proud to stand with them."
LD 37
Senator Gordon Johnson "I am honored to receive the endorsement of the NJ League of Conservation Voters. I am proud to stand with them and support their efforts to address climate change, expand renewable energy, and ensure that our parks have the resources they need to operate."
Assemblywoman Ellen Park - "I am overjoyed to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV. I look forward to working with them and all of our environmental partners to make New Jersey clean and safe for all."
Assemblywoman Shama Haider - “It is an honor to be endorsed by New Jersey LCV. I am most passionate about environmental issues and look forward to working with them in the future when it matters most.”
LD 38
Senator Joseph Lagana, Assemblywoman Lisa Swain and Assemblyman Christopher Tully
“We’re honored to have the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. We share their commitment to protecting our environment, our climate, and the planet for generations to come.”
New Jersey LCV is a nonpartisan organization whose mission is to elect environmental champions, and it is the only New Jersey environmental group with both a Political Action Committee (PAC) and Super PAC.
Paid for by New Jersey LCV Political Action Committee, PO Box 1237, Trenton, NJ 08607