Mercer County Freeholder Anthony S. Verrelli of Hopewell today declared his candidacy for the 15^th Legislative District Assembly seat, which was vacated by Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. Verrelli is the current President of Keystone + Mountain + Lakes Regional Council of Carpenters Local 254.

Verrelli will hold a press conference on the steps of the New Jersey Statehouse in Trenton on July 18 at 12 p.m.

“I am excited to announce my candidacy to fill the vacancy of the 15th Legislative District Assembly seat, which was recently vacated by new City of Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora,” said Verrelli. “If elected, I will look to extend Reed’s legacy of being a strong Democratic voice in the State House, making sure Mercer and Hunterdon are well represented in the State of New Jersey and making a difference in the lives of middle class families who live in the 15^th District.

“I have lived in the 15^th District all of my life. I was born in the City of Trenton, grew up in Lawrenceville, raised my family in Ewing and now live in Hopewell. I understand every aspect of the 15th District and will be a fierce advocate for every resident.

“Before I became a Mercer County Freeholder, I spent decades of my life working as a union carpenter, organizer and business agent. In these positions, I’ve fought hard for strong Democratic middle-class priorities, such as a real living wage, good health benefits and the ability for families to retire with dignity and security. If elected to the 15^th District, I want to work with Assembly leadership to pass a progressive agenda of a $15 minimum wage, protections against wage theft and worker misclassification, pay equality for all and a statewide paid sick leave policy.”