Former DNC Chair and Labor Secretary Tom Perez Endorses Brian Varela for Congress (NJ-7)

“Brian Varela understands that Democrats win when we organize everywhere and fight for working people. He has built an impressive grassroots campaign grounded in delivering economic opportunity, worker empowerment, bringing down costs, and fighting the chaos and corruption that Tom Kean Jr refuses to stand up to.”

Morris County, NJ (February 27, 2026) – Today, Democratic candidate for Congress Brian Varela announced the endorsement of former Democratic National Committee Chair and former U.S. Labor Secretary Tom Perez. The high-level endorsement further strengthens Varela who has emerged as the leading Democratic candidate in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District with the best chance of beating Republican Congressman, Tom Kean Jr., and flipping the district from red to blue. 

Perez, who previously served as Secretary of Labor under President Barack Obama, highlighted Varela’s ability to unite Democrats, Independents, and moderate Republicans and build a coalition that can win competitive races and deliver results for working families.

“Brian Varela understands that Democrats win when we organize everywhere and fight for working people,” said Perez. “He has built an impressive grassroots campaign grounded in delivering economic opportunity, worker empowerment, bringing down costs, and fighting the chaos and corruption that Tom Kean Jr refuses to stand up to. Brian has demonstrated both the vision and the campaign strength needed to win this race and serve New Jersey families in Congress. I am proud to endorse him.”

Perez’s announcement of support comes as Varela’s campaign continues to demonstrate clear momentum. The campaign leads the field with more than 80 endorsements and over $1.4 million cash on hand, reflecting broad support from grassroots activists, elected officials, and national organizations.

Varela has earned backing from national Democratic leaders and organizations including former presidential candidate Andrew Yang, Latino Victory Fund, Freethought Equality PAC, and Peace Action PAC, alongside a growing coalition of local Democratic leaders across the district.

“Secretary Perez has spent his career standing up for workers and building a Democratic Party that competes everywhere,” said Varela. “I’m honored to have his support as our campaign continues to build a broad coalition focused on lowering costs, expanding opportunity, and delivering real results for working families. Together, we’re proving that a strong, united Democratic campaign can win in NJ-07.”

With expanding national backing, strong fundraising, and the most endorsements in the race, Varela’s campaign continues to solidify its position as the strongest Democratic contender to flip New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.