ELECT WOMEN NJ CELEBRATES HISTORIC VICTORIES FOR WOMEN CANDIDATES IN NEW JERSEY

Middletown, NJ –  In a historic election season, Elect Women NJ – the first and leading political action committee focused on raising money to invest in viable, diverse, Democratic, and pro-choice women to run for local office in NJ races – proudly supported a diverse group of talented and passionate women candidates who ran for various offices, ranging from Board of Education to County Offices.

We are thrilled to announce that we have secured victories in 21 races. Kathy Williams, Vice Chair and Founding Board Member of Elect Women NJ stated, “The election of 21 diverse women is a resounding testament to our mission and the dedication of our candidates. This achievement highlights the incredible impact of supporting and empowering women who are running for office. We celebrate these wins as milestones on our journey toward a more equitable and inclusive political landscape. We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that more women have the opportunity to lead, influence, and shape the future of our communities.”

“We are elated to witness these exceptional women secure their rightful places in the political arena. Their victories not only reflect their capabilities but also underscore the importance of diverse representation in our government,” said Linda Peng-Grooters, Founder and Treasurer of Elect Women NJ. “We firmly believe that when women are empowered and given the opportunity to lead, our communities thrive, and our policies become more inclusive and representative of the people they serve.”

The March 2023 report from the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University highlights the significant gender gap in New Jersey’s municipal offices, where only 29.9% are held by women, falling below the national average of 31.5%. Initiatives like Elect Women NJ are pivotal in addressing these disparities, as they actively support and empower women to run for office, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable political landscape.

Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr, who was re-elected to serve her 6th term in office this month, stated, “Winning the mayoral election with the endorsement and support of Elect Women NJ highlights the incredible power of building a network and supporting women in politics. An endorsement and funding from Elect Women NJ isn’t just a stamp of approval; it underscores the significance of uplifting women leaders and the transformative impact it has on our cities and towns. I’m not just a mayor; I’m a testament to what’s possible when we come together, empower women, and forge a more inclusive path for future generations.”

A’Dorian Murray Thomas, whose historic win as the youngest Commissioner elected to serve in Essex County stated, “The endorsement and funding from Elect Women NJ were transformative for my campaign. They not only provided critical financial support but also brought a network of passionate individuals who believed in my vision for a more inclusive and equitable community. This endorsement was not just about winning an election; it was about affirming the value of women’s voices in leadership. With the support of Elect Women NJ, I not only secured victory, but also laid the groundwork for a brighter future, where women’s leadership is celebrated, and our policies reflect the diverse needs of our constituents.”

Elect Women NJ would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to all the candidates who worked tirelessly throughout their campaigns. Their dedication to public service has set a powerful example for future generations of leaders and has inspired countless individuals across the state. Tricia Maguire, Founder and Executive Director stated, “As Elect Women NJ celebrates these victories, we stand unwavering in our commitment to empowering women to step into the political arena, advocating for policies that uplift and empower women. Having successfully funded 125 remarkable women in just three years, we are not merely witnessing change; we are catalyzing a movement. Our progress fuels our determination to expand our impact further, ensuring that more women are not just running for office but winning. We eagerly anticipate the continued growth of our movement, with more women ascending to positions of power, leading our communities, and inspiring generations to come.”

To learn more about Elect Women NJ, visit ElectWomenNJ.com.