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—are collectively supporting State Senator Nellie 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 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.”

Bergen County Democratic Chairman Paul Juliano said, “This is a pivotal moment for New Jersey. Senator Pou’s candidacy represents progress for our state and a continuation of the strong leadership that Congressman Bill Pascrell provided for nearly three decades. We are united in our belief that Nellie Pou is the best person to carry on that legacy.”

Hudson County Democratic Chairman Craig Guy added, “While we have great respect for all the candidates who have shown interest in running, Senator Pou is uniquely qualified to serve the residents of the 9th District. Her experience and leadership will ensure that our community continues to thrive and we believe she is the best candidate to keep us moving forward during this critical time in our nation’s history.”

The chairmen emphasized their respect for all the candidates who have expressed interest in the race and their commitment to maintaining unity within the Democratic Party. They are confident that Senator Pou’s candidacy will serve the district well and make history by electing the first Latina congresswoman from New Jersey. The Democratic County Committees from Bergen, Passaic, and Hudson Counties will meet Thursday, August 29th to finalize the nomination. The chairmen urge all committee members to support Senator Pou as the Democratic nominee for the 9th Congressional District.