Recently retired Municipal Court Judge of Perth Amboy Kenneth Gonzalez received his first endorsement in his quest to be mayor – former Perth Amboy City Council President Joel Pabon.

Gonzalez formally announced his candidacy this week.

Pabon will also occupy a key role on Gonzalez’s campaign, as he vies in the Democratic Primary with incumbent Mayor Helmin Caba and attorney Joe Vas, Jr.

Gonzalez and Pabon have known each other for well over 20 years. The two men served together on the Perth Amboy Board of Education for approximately nine years and later served together on the Perth Amboy City Council from 2010 until 2014 when Gonzalez left the Council to become the Chief Judge of the Perth Amboy Municipal Court.

In the words of Pabon, “Ken is a great man and he has supported Perth Amboy his entire adult life. I cannot find a better candidate to represent us in the June 4th Democratic Primary. I hope you will join me in voting for Ken Gonzalez for Mayor of the City Perth Amboy.”

Said Gonzalez: “I am honored to receive the endorsement of Former Council President Pabon who is a lifelong resident of the City of Perth Amboy and highly respected figure in our city. Joel appreciates the need to change the direction of our city for the better. Even more, I am honored that Council President Pabon has agreed to serve as my campaign manager where he will utilize his enthusiasm, dedication and strong work ethic to help ensure that we run a successful campaign.”

Gonzalez said he expects to announce in the coming weeks his two running mates. The campaign manager for Gonzalez shall be former City Council President Pabon.