ADAMO FOR SHERIFF CONDEMNS SPEZIALE’S MISLEADING CAMPAIGN AND HIGHLIGHTS WIDESPREAD DEMOCRATIC ENDORSEMENTS

Clifton, NJ – The Adamo for Sheriff campaign expresses its strong disapproval of the unethical practices employed by the Speziale campaign in the ongoing race for Passaic County Sheriff.  The Speziale campaign repeatedly publicizes false information and uses deceitful tactics, primarily using his platform as a smear campaign against Chief Thomas Adamo.

In addition, the Speziale campaign falsely hints at endorsements from Democratic leaders. Thomas Adamo is the only candidate endorsed by the Passaic County Democratic Party, with endorsements from prominent Democratic leaders like Senator Cory Booker and Governor Phil Murphy. These endorsements highlight the trust and support Thomas Adamo has earned for his outstanding 29-year history with the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office. Mr. Speziale has no such endorsements from the Democratic Party.

Mr. Speziale has also been misleading voters by presenting himself as the incumbent sheriff. This deliberate deception is an affront to Passaic County voters’ intelligence and a clear attempt to manipulate voter perception for personal gain. Mr. Speziale has not been Sheriff of Passaic County since he resigned abruptly 14 years ago, which led to an FBI investigation.

In a desperate attempt to discredit Chief Adamo, Mr. Speziale falsely accuses him of female discrimination. In stark contrast, multiple women within the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office successfully sued Mr. Speziale, with a settlement costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Mr. Speziale also falsely claims that Chief Adamo voted for Donald Trump. This accusation is baseless, as voting is private, and such claims cannot be substantiated. Chief Adamo never voted for Trump. It is Mr. Speziale who endorsed a Republican candidate against former Sheriff Richard Berdnik. The Speziale campaign’s continuing media lies are fabrications for Mr. Speziale’s personal gain and ego. This behavior is not only irresponsible but also detracts from the serious nature of the electoral process. It also clearly demonstrates the character of his candidacy.

Voters must be reminded of Mr. Speziale’s poor record, including his multiple resignations and an FBI investigation when he resigned as Sheriff in 2010. Most recently, his loss of control of the Paterson Police department while serving as Paterson Police Director led to a state takeover, reported by the Attorney General as a “crisis of confidence” and suggesting “widespread corruption”. This is a glaring testament to Mr. Speziale’s failed leadership.

The Adamo for Sheriff Campaign promotes a fair, transparent, and honest electoral process. We call on the Speziale campaign to immediately cease these deceptive and unethical practices. Passaic County deserves a campaign grounded in truth, integrity, and respect for the democratic process. Mr. Speziale must halt these dishonest tactics and focus on honest and relevant campaign issues.

Widespread Endorsements for Chief Thomas Adamo And His Commissioner Running Mates Sandi Lazzara, Rodney De Vore, and John Bartlett Show Strong Support Across Passaic County

Chief Thomas Adamo and the Passaic County Democratic Organization Team continue to receive broad and enthusiastic support from notable Democrats and organizations across the county and state. The Passaic County Democratic Organization campaign is bolstered by endorsements from diverse leaders who trust his vision and leadership for the future of Passaic County.

State and National Endorsements

• Governor Phil Murphy endorsed Chief Adamo, citing his leadership skills and dedication to public service. Governor Murphy also endorsed Commissioners Sandi Lazzara, John Bartlett, and Rodney De Vore, emphasizing their collective commitment to economic opportunity and community safety.
• S. Senator Cory Booker praised Chief Adamo for his modern approach to law enforcement that emphasizes community engagement. He also endorsed Commissioners Lazzara, Bartlett, and De Vore for their roles in expanding access to essential services and economic growth.
• Congressional Representatives Bill Pascrell, Josh Gottheimer, and Mikie Sherrill expressed their support, highlighting Chief Adamo’s preparedness to enhance public safety and foster federal, state, and local collaboration.

State Legislative and Local Government Support

• State Senator John McKeon and Assemblywomen Rosy Bagolie and Alixon Collazos-Gill from

Legislative District 27 commended Chief Adamo for his proactive, community-focused approach to law enforcement. They also support the re-election of Commissioners Lazzara, Bartlett, and the election of newcomer Rodney De Vore.

• State Senator Paul Sarlo, Assemblymembers Gary Schaer, and Clinton Calabrese of the 36th

Legislative District endorsed Chief Adamo and the Democratic slate for commissioners, recognizing their effective governance and positive impact on the community’s quality of life.

• Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter has voiced strong support for Chief Adamo, highlighting his long history of service and commitment to community safety.

Local Leadership Endorsements

• Bob Lyons, a respected figure in law enforcement and former director of the Passaic County Police Academy, endorsed Chief Adamo, acknowledging his nearly three decades of service and dedication to community safety.

• Mayors and Councils from Woodland Park, Little Falls, Haledon, and Bloomingdale have collectively endorsed Chief Adamo, aligning with his vision for community-oriented policing and enhanced public safety
• Democratic Municipal Leaders and Co-Leaders across Passaic County have united in endorsing Chief Adamo and the commissioner candidates, recognizing their integrity, dedication, and

Law Enforcement Endorsements

• Acting Sheriff Gary Giardina, Executive Undersheriff George Rosenthal, and Undersheriffs Kevin Dickson, Humberto Cuadrado, and Nart Hapatsha formally announced their support, highlighting Chief Adamo’s leadership qualities and his role in maintaining department stability.

• Local Police Chiefs, including Chief Angelo J. Daniele of Haledon, Chief Shannon Sommerville of West Milford, and Chief John Uzzalino of Woodland Park, have expressed their endorsement, underscoring Chief Adamo’s extensive experience and commitment to law enforcement excellence.

Majority of County Commissioners

• Commissioners John Bartlett, Sandi Lazzara, Orlando Cruz, Bruce James, and Pat Lepore have endorsed Chief Adamo, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining efficient operations and fiscal

As the primary election approaches, these endorsements underline the broad and diverse support for Chief Thomas Adamo’s candidacy for Passaic County Sheriff, reflecting a united front for his leadership and vision.

For additional information about Chief Thomas Adamo’s campaign for Passaic County Sheriff, please visit adamoforsheriff.com or pcdems.com.