Rep. Josh Gottheimer has secured an endorsement from Assemblyman Gary Schaer (D-Passaic) in his bid for the Democratic nomination for governor. Schaer, a veteran legislator and Passaic’s City Council President, is a major political force within the city’s Orthodox Jewish community.
In a letter to his constituents, Schaer praised Gottheimer as “a champion for the U.S.–Israel relationship” and cited his vocal and unwavering support for Israel.
“Josh has stood strong, vocal, and proud in defending Eretz Yisroel and reaffirming the bipartisan commitment to Israel’s security and right to self-defense,” Schaer wrote. “His leadership on initiatives such as securing Iron Dome funding and opposing efforts to delegitimize Israel speaks volumes about his integrity and moral clarity.”
Schaer also commended Gottheimer’s fight against antisemitism, especially on college campuses. “Josh has not only called out this disturbing trend—he has taken action,” he wrote, referencing hearings, legislation, and public advocacy efforts that Gottheimer has led to protect Jewish students.
In his message, Schaer urged unaffiliated voters in Passaic to participate in the Democratic primary and support Gottheimer’s campaign.
The endorsement follows Gottheimer’s recent backing by The Lakewood Vaad and leading local askanim, who have been urging the kehilla to turn out and vote for Gottheimer.
With the outcome of the Democratic primary being a tossup, the Orthodox Jewish vote can literally make the difference for Gottheimer.
Why are these guys Demoncrats?