Sold-out Crowd Bolsters Re-election Campaigns of Kean, Smith and VanDrew

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ — Republican leaders from across New Jersey joined with members of the trade unions to host a successful fundraising reception on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in support of Congressmen Tom Kean Jr., Chris Smith, and Jeff Van Drew. 

Held at the Ocean View Restaurant in Seaside Heights, the reception brought together elected officials, party leaders, labor representatives, and supporters from across the state in a strong show of unity and commitment to rebuilding New Jersey’s Republican Party.

The sold-out event was chaired by a distinguished group of Republican leaders and advocates, including Chairman Jose Arango, Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione, Rosemary Becchi, BCRO Finance Chair Tom Toscano, Chairman Joseph LaBarbera, Chairwoman Kimberley Stuart, Chairman George Gilmore, Dave Tamasi, Chairwoman Patricia Johnson, and Senator Michael Testa.

The fundraising effort was led by George Gilmore and Rosemary Becchi and raised over $175,000 dollars to support the re-election of the three incumbent Republican Congressmen.  The event’s success underscores the need for New Jersey’s Republican Party to rebuild, starting with the re-election of its three GOP members of Congress.

Trade union members played a key role in supporting the event, underscoring the importance of partnerships between labor and pro-growth policymakers focused on economic opportunity, infrastructure investment, and job creation.

“This strong showing of support reflects the confidence New Jerseyans have in the outstanding federal representation provided by Congressmen Kean, Smith, and Van Drew,” said Rosemary Becchi. “These leaders are fighting for lower costs, economic growth, and common-sense policies that benefit working families across our state.”Ocean GOP Chairman George Gilmore stated: “This is only the beginning of our efforts to reverse the recent trend of republican loses in the legislative and statewide offices.  Over the past two legislative elections we have lost 11 seats.  It is time for Republicans to unite and have a cohesive effort to raise funds for our candidates and develop messages and policies to win elections and offer a viable opportunity to turn our state around.”