As a federal political career shriveled up in disgrace earlier today, another one lifted auspiciously off the launch pad this evening in Newark, where constituents in the 10th Congressional District pray for a different result from their young rising star, one characterized by integrity not betrayal, and public service, not Egyptian servitude.

A special election to fill the vacancy left by Donald Payne Jr. (D), who died on April 24, resulted in a victory by Newark Central Ward Councilwoman Lamonica McIver, who ran with a strong record of grassroots outreach in her ward.

The councilwoman prevailed in the Democratic Party Primary in New Jersey’s most Democratic district over Derek Armstead of Linwood, Brittany Claybrooks of East Orange, John Flora of Asbury, Darryl Godfrey of Newark, Alberta Gordon of Newark, Eugene Mazo of Newark, Shana Melius of Secaucus, Sheila Montague of Newark, Debra Salters of Newark, and Jerry Walker of Jersey City.

Her win did not surprise New Jersey’s political establishment, who expected McIver to defeat others in the crowded field, in part owing to her long and strong affiliation with the Ras Baraka organization and the support of the Essex County Democratic Committee.

The win in part – at least locally – abated the suffocating stench of the Menendez case for Democrats rankled by polling showing their party struggling nationally in a rundown with convicted felon Donald Trump.

The CD-10 general election will occur on September 18.

Said McIver when she declared her candidacy in May:

“I am deeply honored and humbled to have received the Democratic endorsement for the 10^th congressional seat. This moment is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the trust and confidence that the community has placed in me to carry on the legacy of dedicated public service set by the late Honorable Donald J. Payne, Jr. and his father.

“With this nomination comes a tremendous responsibility—one that I do not take lightly. I am deeply committed to continue to serve our community with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast determination to address the challenges we face and fight for the issues that matter most to all of us. Together, we have the opportunity to build upon the foundation that Congressman Payne Sr. & Congressman Payne Jr. built and create a brighter future for our district, one where every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every community thrives.”

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill tonight released the following statement congratulating McIver on

winning the Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 10th District:

“I want to extend my congratulations to LaMonica on winning today’s primary to represent New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District for the unexpired term. LaMonica is a dedicated public servant with a track record of success fighting for the City of Newark and Essex County, and I know she will bring that passion to Congress. I look forward to working together to lower costs for Garden State families, expand access to child care in North Jersey, and protect abortion rights. I know that LaMonica will carry on Rep. Donald Payne’s legacy of delivering for New Jersey, serving with kindness, and putting our democracy first.”