Progressives Score Big Win Over Hudson County Machine

Progressive candidates Ravi Bhalla and Katie Brennan have declared victory in the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s 32nd Legislative District, representing Hoboken and parts of Jersey City, according to unofficial results with 126 of 147 districts reporting.

The unofficial vote totals show Brennan leading with 6,376 votes and Bhalla following with 6,186 votes. Candidates Jessica Ramirez, Jennie Pu, Yousef J. Saleh, and Crystal C. Fonseca received 6,024; 4,873; 4,730; and 4,621 votes, respectively.

Both Brennan and Bhalla overcame competing slates backed by the Hudson County Democratic Organization and the “Democrats for Change” faction led by Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop.

“Thank you Jersey City and Hoboken. This is what democracy looks like! This is our win, for and by the people. We did it. We really did it,” wrote Brennan. “I am so proud to be the Democratic Assembly nominee with Mayor Bhalla. More to come soon.”

“Thank you Hoboken and Jersey City! We truly did it! For now all I will simply say is that I am so deeply honored and humbled to be your Democratic Party nominee ,” wrote Mayor Bhalla. “We look forward to working hand in hand with fellow Democrats to secure victory in November.”