Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter this morning suspended her campaign for the CD-9 Congressional seat.

The Democratic Chairmen from the three counties that make up New Jersey’s 9th Congressional District—Paul Juliano of Bergen County, John Currie of Passaic County, and Craig Guy of Hudson County—yesterday issued a statement backing State Senator Pou to be the Democratic candidate on the ballot this November.

Senator Pou would be the first Latina ever to represent New Jersey in Congress. The three county chairmen said they believe Senator Pou’s endorsement is in the best interest of the district’s residents and families and in keeping with the long and distinguished record of service established during Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr.’s tenure representing the district in Congress. Juliano, Currie, and Guy have been discussing the best path forward since Rep. Pascrell’s untimely passing last week because of the looming county committee vote to ensure the state deadline of August 29th for parties to submit replacement nominees 68 days before the general election is met.

“I considered Bill to be a personal friend but also a tremendous fighter for our district in Washington. Senator Nellie Pou has a long and distinguished record of public service, and we believe she is the right choice to represent our diverse and vibrant district in Congress,” said John Currie, Passaic County Democratic Chairman. “We are excited about the historic opportunity to elect the first Latina congresswoman in our state’s history.”

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Earlier this week, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh bowed out of the running.

For his part, Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly sent out a letter asking committee members for support in advance of Thursday’s special convention. He wrote:

“As a coach and educator, I believe in building strong fundamentals-whether that is in the classroom, or on the field of play. For our communities, those fundamentals are simple: well paying jobs, thriving main streets, top-notch education for our children, safe streets, and protections of our fundamental rights as citizens. It is clear to me that Washington isn’t working for everyday folks. And we need strong leaders who will stand up to bullies and extremists to protect what is fundamental. That’s why I am running for Congress for the 9th Congressional District. I am asking for your support and vote at the Democratic Nominating Convention this Thursday. Join us as we build a better future together.”