Today, the Garden State Equality Action Fund announced its 2024 federal endorsements, providing guidance for its 150,000 members ahead of mail-in voting. As New Jersey’s leading LGBTQ+ advocacy organization for over 20 years, we endorse candidates across the political spectrum who demonstrate a strong commitment to uplifting the voices of the LGBTQ+ community through education, advocacy, and a steadfast dedication to equality in New Jersey and nationwide. This year, protecting LGBTQ+ youth is our top priority in response to escalating political attacks from well-funded national campaigns.

“While Curtis Bashaw’s potential election to the U.S. Senate would indeed be historic, after careful review of his responses to our questionnaire, it is clear that his positions do not meet our criteria for being a true pro-equality candidate,” said Jeannine Frisby LaRue, Chair of the Garden State Equality Action Fund. “As a woman of color who has broken barriers in my own career, I understand the importance of representation. However, representation alone cannot outweigh the need for leaders who prioritize the safety and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community, especially our youth. Curtis Bashaw’s responses fell short of the commitment we require from those seeking our endorsement.”

“As attacks on LGBTQ+ rights ramp up, driven by Donald Trump and his cronies pushing false narratives, it’s more urgent than ever to elect federal leaders who will unapologetically defend our community not just here in New Jersey, but across our nation,” said Christian Fuscarino, Executive Director of Garden State Equality Action Fund. “In 2024, we need candidates who aren’t just symbols of representation but are fiercely committed to advancing equality and protecting our most vulnerable,
especially LGBTQ+ youth.”

Garden State Equality Action Fund will release its full list of endorsed candidates in the coming weeks. The following candidates receive Garden State Equality Action Funds Endorsement:

President: Kamala Harris
U.S. Senate: Andy Kim
CD 1: Donald Norcross*
CD 2: Joe Salerno
CD 3: Dr. Herb Conaway Jr.
CD 4: Matt Jenkins
CD 5: Josh Gottheimer*
CD 6: Frank Pallone*
CD 7: Sue Altman
CD 8: Rob Menendez*
CD 9: Nellie Pou
CD 10: LaMonica McIver
CD 11: Mikie Sherrill*
CD 12: Bonnie Watson Coleman*
*Incumbent
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Garden State Equality, the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in New Jersey, lifts up the diverse voices of LGBTQ+ communities through education and advocacy to advance the movement for equality in New Jersey and nationally.