Neill Clark, Mayor of Sparta, Endorses Brian Varela for Congress (NJ-7)

“I’m proud to endorse Brian Varela because he possesses that rare combination of authentic empathy and political prowess that springs from his working-class and small business owner background.”

Morris County, NJ (December 5, 2025) – Today, Neill Clark, the Mayor of Sparta, NJ, announced his endorsement of Brian Varela in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.
“I’m proud to endorse Brian Varela because he possesses that rare combination of authentic empathy and political prowess that springs from his working-class and small business owner background,” said Clark. “His practical pocketbook focused economic message combined with his grassroots support and ground game are key to winning back the voters that Democrats need in districts like NJ-07. As the mayor of a town which Trump carried with 57% of the vote, I know what it takes for a Democrat to win in places like Sparta – and Brian is that kind of Democrat.”

Clark is the first prominent Democrat in Sussex County to make an endorsement in the Democratic primary for NJ-7, and the first sitting mayor to endorse Varela. He is also one of few elected Democrats in Sussex County. Clark’s endorsement is Varela’s 38th, including 17 from Morris County, 16 from Hunterdon County, 1 from Union County and 2 from Warren County. Varela has now earned endorsements from five of the six counties in the district.

“Neill Clark is a great mayor for the town of Sparta, and I’m honored to have his support as our campaign continues to gain momentum,” said Varela. “Since day one, I’ve been committed to meeting voters everywhere in our district. Democrats can’t afford to ignore places like Sparta and Sussex County if we’re going to flip NJ-07, and Neill understands that better than anyone.”

Varela, with 38 endorsements from Democratic leaders in New Jersey, is the only candidate in the field with endorsements covering five counties. He has raised more than $1 million in his campaign for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

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About Brian Varela
Brian Varela is a 36-year-old first-generation American, small business owner, and father running for Congress in NJ-07. Raised in New Jersey by immigrant parents, Brian put himself through college, helped raise his younger brother, and built one of the fastest-growing companies in America during the COVID crisis. Recognized by Inc. Magazine and NJ Business Magazine for leadership and innovation, Brian brings a real-world perspective to one of the most competitive House races in the nation. Visit www.varelaforcongress.com for more information and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and X.