They hit heads last year, with the office they shared proving too small for the two of them and a thorny primary threatening to polish one of them off, though they both survived – not without some lingering hostile feelings.

And today, Assemblywoman Betty Lou DeCroce (R-26) doubled back on some of those unresolved heartaches by issuing an endorsement of newcomer Tony Ghee of Totowa, the GOP Primary opponent of DeCroce slate mate Assemblyman Jay Webber (R-26).

“In the wake of Congressman Frelinghuysen’s retirement, and Assemblyman Bucco’s decision to not run for congress, Republicans in Morris, Essex, Passaic and Sussex County face a critical choice about the future of our party,” said DeCroce.

She went back picture, giving herself plenty of runway room to expound on her rationale for administering a joy buzzer to Webber.

“Those who believe we can run yesterday’s campaign in today’s climate are mistaken,” the assemblywoman said. “We need to nominate a dynamic candidate who inspires and unites us, and who will appeal to voters across the political spectrum. As the only female legislator in Morris County, we must recognize that our party must be able to reach across all demographics to engage and attract voters.”

It gave herself a little more room – just before she cut to the quick of it:

“After spending some time to get to know Tony Ghee” – how long the quote doesn’t exactly specify – and by “long” does one mean minutes, hours, days – “I can say with absolute certainty that he is clearly our party’s best chance at keeping this seat,” DeCroce said. “That I why I am endorsing Antony ‘Tony’ Ghee for Congress. Tony is the embodiment of the American Dream and the liberal Democrats’ worst nightmare. His life story of personal and professional success is the result of opportunities afforded every American if they work hard. Tony is a candidate we can all be proud of. I strongly urge all of fellow Republicans to support him.”

Ghee lapped up the applause in a statement.

“I am so overwhelmed and honored to have Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce support my candidacy for Congress,” said the attorney. “Assemblywoman DeCroce has proven to be a fighter, not just in Morris County but throughout New Jersey, for commonsense solutions to problems. As a well-respected leader of the Republican Party in Morris County the significance of her endorsement is not lost upon me. To have announced my candidacy yesterday and have Assemblywoman DeCroce’s support today is extremely humbling. It is my commitment to not only earn the support and vote of every resident in District 11, but to make them proud of their endorsement.

“My mother instilled in me a long time ago that hard work and determination will get you to your goal. It is with that lesson in mind that I sincerely thank Assemblywoman DeCroce for her endorsement today and look forward to working towards our common goal – victory in November!” he added.