Sumter won't challenge Pascrell in Democratic primary – New Jersey Globe

Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter has decided not to challenge Rep. Bill Pascrell in the 8th district Democratic primary, clearing the field for the 87-year-old congressman to seek a 15th term.

Sumter attended the Passaic County Democratic screening committee this morning but told party leaders on Friday that she plans to drop any plans to take on Pascrell after that vote.

“I interviewed with Passaic County and made them aware that I am ready to serve at the federal level,” Sumter told the New Jersey Globe.  “I shook the congressman’s hand as he exited his interview.”

Pascrell, who has spent six decades in Passaic County politics, secured endorsements from Gov. Phil Murphy and his home county chairman, John Currie,  this week.

Sumter, a seven-term lawmaker from Paterson who is 37 years younger than the incumbent, has found that Democrats are still ready to stick with Pascrell despite his age.  Following the retirement of Rep. Grace Napolitano (D-California), Pascrell will become the oldest member of the U.S. House of Representatives next year if he wins re-election.

Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh also mulled a primary fight with Pascrell, putting a poll in the field last month.  He decided against running.

But when Pascrell does retire, Sumter and Sayegh have planted flags indicating their readiness to run for Congress.  A third Paterson Democrat, Assemblyman Benji Wimberley, is also considered a possible candidate.

Bergen Democrats appear solidly with Pascrell — Democratic County Chairman Paul Juliano endorsed him this morning —  but an open seat could tempt them to run their own candidate.   Passaic County turnout has been light since 2012, when Pascrell defeated Rep. Steve Rothman (D-Fair Lawn) in an incumbent vs. incumbent primary caused by redistricting.  In 2022, primary turnout between the two counties was dead even.

Possible Bergen candidates include County Commissioner Tracey Silna Zur, Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes, and Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese.

“Congressman Pascrell embodies the very best of leadership: integrity, authenticity, loyalty, and a tireless commitment to fighting for his constituents,” Juliano said.  “Bill Pascrell has been an unwavering advocate for Bergen County families, and we need his voice in Congress more than ever. I am proud to endorse Bill Pascrell for Congress and will fight as hard for his re-election as he fights for us.”