Signaling further northern fracturing away from sitting Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-32), Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter (D-35) this evening issued a statement backing Assemblyman Craig Coughlin (D-18) for speaker.

“With these historic wins, the time is now for our Democratic leadership to redefine itself to work the progressive agenda outlined by Governor Elect Murphy during the campaign.,” Sumter said.

“I am anxious for the Assembly to re-establish the leadership to move our state forward.  The time is now to unite with Assemblyman Craig Coughlin in his ascension to the Speaker of the House,” said the Paterson-based assemblywoman. “Make clear determinations, unanimous determinations on the leadership team that I am honored to be a part of as Majority Conference Leader continuing to serve the great people of New Jersey.  “