Assemblyman Nick Chiaravalloti (D-31) this morning ended his off-the-line reelection bid for the Assembly in LD31.

His full statement:

“I am in public service because I love my community and want to work to improve Bayonne, Jersey
City, Hudson County and New Jersey.

“Unfortunately, I do not have the support of the Hudson County Democratic Organization to run for
re-election. I was informed by Chairwoman DeGise that because of an archaic deal made decades
ago, she feels obligated to support Mayor James Davis’ pick for the Assembly. Of course, I am
frustrated and disappointed.

“I believe I have done a good job in Trenton and that no one individual should dictate who represents
the people of Bayonne and Jersey City in the New Jersey Legislature. Unfortunately, in the culture of
Hudson County politics, there is no current process for me to present my record, no screening
committees, no interviews, and no participation on the part of the elected Democratic committee
members.

“In reviewing my options, I considered running off the line. The task of winning off the line is daunting
in a normal year; however, running against the HCDO this year would mean running against
Governor Phil Murphy. I believe the power of the line and the popularity of Governor Murphy would
make it impossible to compete successfully.

“As a strong supporter of the Governor, I do not see any benefit to running against a ticket he leads.
This election is too important. We need to continue the progress we have made and make New
Jersey a stronger and fairer state by supporting Governor Murphy’s re-election.

“Therefore, I have decided to withdraw from the race. I will continue to serve my community and
assist in any way possible to improve the lives of Hudson County and New Jersey residents.

“I want to thank everyone who has reached out to support me. I especially want to thank my family –
everyone who knows me understands that family comes first. I know how lucky I am to have their
unconditional love.”