“Today’s minimum wage deal recognizes the dignity of work, will help hard working New Jerseyans, and is sensitive to the needs of small businesses,” said Jois.

“Beyond this deal there’s more we can do to tackle affordability, and I look forward to sharing my ideas on those topics in the coming weeks and months,” added the Democrat, looking at competing in the Democratic Primary to get the nomination to oppose Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick (R-21) and Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz (R-21).

“There is no social program better than a good paying job with good benefits,” Jois said.