Reuven Hendler, candidate for Congress in Congressional District 3, looked forward to addressing the endorsement convention of the Mercer County Democratic Committee (MCDC) on March 16. CD-3 now includes parts of Mercer County, and the MCDC invited candidates from across the County to speak at their annual convention to win their endorsement and favored placement on the Primary Election ballot.

Although Hendler did as requested by the MCDC on their website weeks in advance and followed up repeatedly with MCDC Leadership and staff, he was denied the opportunity to speak at the convention. This action by the MCDC violates their own Constitution and By-Laws, the laws of the State of New Jersey, and the basic principles of fairness. Hendler was denied the opportunity to speak and the delegates to the convention were prevented from hearing his views, distorting their endorsement decisions.

On March 25, Hendler filed a legal complaint with the Superior Court of New Jersey in Mercer County against the Mercer County Democratic Committee and the County Clerk for the County of Mercer. The complaint details the steps Hendler took to comply with the MCDC endorsement process and the repeated failures of the MCDC to respond. The complaint asks for a redo of the Convention, this time allowing Hendler to speak as a candidate. A Superior Court hearing on the complaint is scheduled for March 29.

Our great democracy depends on the honest exchange of ideas and voters making well-informed choices. By silencing Reuven Hendler, the Mercer County Democratic Committee failed to meet its basic responsibilities.