Murphy backs Sampson, Walker in Hudson Assembly primary – New Jersey Globe

Gov. Phil Murphy is wading further into the war among Hudson County Democrats, endorsing a pair of county party-backed Assembly candidates in one of the state’s premier legislative primaries. 

Murphy endorsed Assemblyman William Sampson (D-Bayonne) and Hudson County Commissioner Jerry Walker in the 31st legislative district primary on Monday morning.

“William has been a strong voice for the people of Bayonne, Kearny, and Jersey City — providing tax relief for homeowners and renters, funding our public schools, reducing crime, and supporting small businesses,” Murphy said in a release. “And, throughout it all, he has never forgotten his roots as a son of Bayonne. We need fighters like William in office to keep building a stronger and fairer New Jersey for every family.”

Sampson’s assemblymate, Barbara McCann Stamato (D-Jersey City), is also seeking re-election, but on a slate with Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and Assembly candidate/Bayonne Councilwoman Jackie Weimmer.

Jersey City just barely makes up a majority of the district’s votes, with Bayonne and Kearny making up the rest of the district.

“I’m excited to endorse my friend and Hudson County Commissioner Jerry Walker for election to the New Jersey Assembly,” Murphy said in the release. “From his time at St. Anthony High School to his leadership of the non-profit organization Team Walker, Jerry has a long track record of serving his community, including establishing a brand new vocational school in Jersey City.”

Murphy has backed the Hudson County Democratic Organization thus far. Last week, the governor endorsed Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis for sheriff over five-term incumbent Frank S. Schillari, who is aligned with Fulop’s slate. 

The governor has also endorsed Assemblyman Gabe Rodriguez (D-West New York) and Larry Wainstein, who are backed by Union City Mayor/state Sen. Brian Stack.