Having withstood a challenge by John McCann earlier this year, state Senator Gerry Cardinale, (R-39), today repaid that sign of recalcitrance by slapping McCann two days after the Bergen Republican attorney declared his 5^th Congressional District candidacy.

“Steve Lonegan has been a tireless champion of the Republican Party when no one else would step forward to take on the tough battles,” said Cardinale, identifying McCann’s Republican Primary opponent as his preferred choice for the seat now occupied by U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5).  “I’m pleased to be the first state legislator to announce my support for his campaign.”

Cardinale said it is imperative that Republicans unite to take back the Fifth Congressional District in 2018, and is convinced Lonegan has the goods.

“Prior to 2016, North Jersey had not elected a Democrat congressman since the Depression,” Cardinale said.  “To defeat the incumbent, we need a candidate who is committed to the principles of the Republican Party, courageous in campaigning, and battle-tested.  Not only is Steve Lonegan the only candidate in North Jersey who fulfills those criteria, his opponent, John McCann, comes up woefully short.”

First elected to the State Senate in 1981, Cardinale is the most influential Republican leader in Bergen County. “Senator Cardinale has been at the forefront of every worthwhile conservative cause,” Lonegan said.  “I’m honored to have earned his endorsement, grateful for his consistent service, and excited by the momentum behind our campaign to take back the Fifth District.” Lonegan is the only candidate who has been endorsed by the National Republican Congressional Committee, he pointed out in the wake of McCann’s declaration.