OCEAN — Today, Democrats Vin Gopal, Eric Houghtaling, and Joann Downey are touting endorsements from the business community and reinforcing their commitment to helping local small businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and move into the future.

“Since taking office, Sen. Gopal, Asm. Houghtaling, and Asw. Downey have been three of the most reliable allies of New Jersey’s small businesses in the State Legislature, and their work during the COVID-19 pandemic emphatically reaffirmed that,” said Joe Tate, co-founder of the Monmouth County Democrats Small Business and Entrepreneurs Caucus. “All three lawmakers worked quickly to help Monmouth County businesses contend with an unprecedented threat, and we are certain they are the candidates best suited to lead our continued economic recovery and growth. We are proud to endorse their re-election this fall.”

“We are proud to stand with Monmouth County businesses as we work diligently to bring our local economy out of the pandemic and into the future,” said Gopal, Houghtaling, and Downey. “The $400 million in relief funding that we secured for small businesses has made a real difference to keep the lights on for the small businesses that make our communities a great place to live, and we will continue to advocate for their best interests when re-elected.”

“I’m proud to have the National Federation of Independent Businesses’ support,” said Gopal. “Our small businesses are the backbone of our community, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for them when re-elected.”

“New Jobs PAC is fighting for our business community here in Monmouth County and across the state,” said Houghtaling. “I’m thankful to have their support in my run for re-election and look forward to a strong partnership with our business leaders when re-elected.”

“Food Council Committee for Good Government is fighting for our food retailers across New Jersey, which include many of the businesses we know and love here in Monmouth County,” said Downey. “I’m honored to have their support and look forward to working hand-in-hand in Trenton with them when re-elected.”

Below is a list of business-oriented organizations that have endorsed members of the Gopal, Houghtaling, and Downey team:

— Monmouth County Democrats Small Business and Entrepreneurs Caucus (endorsed all 3)
— Food Council Committee for Good Government (endorsed all 3)
— New Jobs PAC (endorsed Gopal and Houghtaling)
— National Federation of Independent Businesses (endorsed Gopal)

Senator Vin Gopal, Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling, and Assemblywoman Joann Downey are running for re-election to serve the 11th Legislative District, which covers 18 municipalities within Monmouth County.

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