Scott Salmon, who impressed Democratic officials with his hard work, fundraising skills, and command of issues, has dropped out of the 7th district congressional race and endorsed Tom Malinowski.
“Tom and I agree on every major issue, and I have spent enough time with him to know that he will never abandon his values, even when times are tough,” Salmon said. “At a time when it is easy to be cynical about politics, it was important to remind people what government is supposed to do and why the struggle is always worth it.”
Salmon praised Democratic party leaders for a “fair, transparent and open process.” He pledged to help Malinowski defeat the incumbent Republican congressman, Leonard Lance (R-Clinton), to help Democrats take back the House.
The suspension of Salmon’s campaign reduces the field of candidates who oppose Lance to five. Lisa Mandelblatt, who raised more than $640,000, dropped out last week and endorsed Malinowski. Linda Weber, who has the organization lines in Somerset and Essex counties, remains in the race, along with Goutam Jois, David Pringle and Peter Jacob.
The 27-year-old attorney gained recognition for an aggressive door-to-door campaign seeking the support of local officials and party leaders, and for his use of current technology to reach voters.
I firmly believe that this campaign has shown that it is possible to have a politics free of cynicism, and that we can have representatives who are compassionate and will work tirelessly on our behalf,” Salmon said. “But we must demand that our leaders live up to this high standard, and if they are unwilling to do so, we must replace them. The people of the 7th Congressional District deserve nothing less.”