MIDDLESEX COUNTY DEMOCRATS: STATE, COUNTY CANDIDATES ENDORSED

    

EDISON----Middlesex County Democratic committee members endorsed candidates for the State Senate and Assembly and for Sheriff, Surrogate and Freeholder at last night’s county Democratic convention at the Pines Manor.

            By acclamation, county Sheriff Joseph Spicuzzo, Surrogate Kevin Hoagland and Freeholders Pete Dalina, Chris Rafano and Blanquita Valenti were endorsed for re-election.

            “Their service has been tireless, honorable and distinguished,� said Freeholder Director David Crabiel, who will serve as campaign manager for the county slate.           

            Assemblywoman Linda Greenstein (14th District), Senator Bob Smith and Assemblymen Joseph Egan and Upendra Chivukula (17th District), Senator Barbara Buono and Assemblymen Patrick Diegnan and Peter Barnes III (18th District) and Senator Nick Scutari and Assemblyman Jerry Green and Assemblywoman Linda Stender (22nd District) all received endorsements from the committee.

            Smith said, “Your endorsement gives us the fire and enthusiasm to carry the Democratic banner.�

            He said the 17th District delegation has strived to do their best, lauding Chivukula for his honesty and intellect, especially on telecommunication issues, and Egan for his expertise on labor matters.

            Former Assemblyman Peter Barnes, Jr. was recognized for his 10 years of legislative service during the convention. Barnes stepped down from his Assembly post this week to accept the chairmanship on the state Parole Board.

            His son received a standing ovation from 18th District committee members after he was endorsed for the Assembly seat. Edison Democratic chairman Thomas “Doc� Paterniti nominated Barnes III, stating he is man of “honor, faith, strength, wisdom and ideals.� Barnes III is to be sworn in this afternoon in Trenton.

            The endorsement convention for the 19th District will be held on March 21 at 7 p.m. at the Forge Inn in Woodbridge.

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