For the 2024 General Election
Dr. Jill Stein / Rudolph "Butch" Ware
Green Party Presidential / Vice Presidential Candidates 2024
Jill Stein is a Harvard-educated doctor, a pioneering environmental health advocate, and an organizer for people, planet, and peace. She has helped lead initiatives to fight environmental racism, injustice, and pollution, to promote healthy communities, and to revitalize democracy. She has helped win victories in campaign finance reform, racially-just redistricting, and the clean-up of incinerators, coal plants, and other toxic threats. She was a principal organizer for the Global Climate Convergence for People, Planet, and Peace over Profit.
In 2003, Jill co-founded the Massachusetts Coalition for Healthy Communities, a non-profit organization that fought for the health and well-being of Massachusetts communities, including health care, local green economies, environmental protection, labor rights, and grassroots democracy.
In 2008, Jill helped lead the “Secure Green Future” ballot initiative to move subsidies from fossil fuels to renewable energy and to create green jobs. The measure won over 81 percent of the vote in the 11 districts in which it was on the ballot.
Jill was born in Chicago and raised in Highland Park, Illinois. She graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College in 1973, and from Harvard Medical School in 1979.
https://www.jillstein2024.com/
Professor Rudolph “Butch” Ware is a lifelong activist and educator specializing in the history of empire, colonialism, genocide and revolution. For the past two decades, Ware has put scholarship in service of the people, especially in response to the ongoing genocide in Gaza, as well as the George Floyd murder in 2020. He has organized teach-ins, community education curricula, and other activist and organizing initiatives. More broadly, Ware has been working as a public intellectual, activist, artist, and organizer, supporting communities across the country and around the world to challenge imperialism, ethnic cleansing, and endless war, and to build sustainable, just, peaceful alternatives rooted in African, Indigenous, and Abrahamic traditions.
Butch was born in Washington DC and raised in Minneapolis. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1997, and completed his doctorate in 2004. With his Ph.D in history from the University of Pennsylvania, Ware is a leading academic authority on the U.S. Black Radical Tradition, Africa and Islam. Since 2004 Professor Ware has been a full faculty member at Northwestern, Michigan, and now UC Santa-Barbara, teaching in History, Black Studies, and Islamic Studies.
Christina Khalil - U.S. Senate
Christina Khalil (she/her/hers) is a native of New Jersey, and she grew up in foster care where she overcame many trials and tribulations throughout her childhood and adult life. Christina has her B.A. in psychology and her Master’s in Social Work both from Ramapo College, which were both major accomplishments for her, and Christina believes that one of the true keys to freedom lies in education. In her free time Christina has avidly volunteered for community organizations doing important work, such as (BCLA) Bergen County LGBTQ+ Alliance.
While obtaining her Master’s Degree, Christina worked on the front lines during the height of the pandemic at a medical detox facility and never quit school, while also volunteering at Hackensack High School. While working in the medical and substance abuse field, Christina noticed that our current elected leaders appeared detached from the reality of the current struggles that citizens of New Jersey face and made a vow to herself that when it was her time to step up and work towards change, she would do just that.
Christina’s leadership and resiliency are unmatched, and she is the leader that New Jersey needs to fight to make the New Jersey citizens’ quality of life better.
https://khalilforsenate.com/
Robin Brownfield - NJ CD-1
Robin Brownfield who lives in Collingswood, NJ, is a former organizer for the United Farm Workers, and an adjunct sociology and labor studies professor at Rutgers University, Rowan University, and numerous community colleges. With the American Federation of Teachers, she has helped organize several union locals for adjunct professors in colleges and universities in New Jersey, and served on the contract bargaining committees as a Vice President in three of those bargaining units.
The daughter of a Jewish father and Filipino-American mother, she is also a well-known artist in the Philadelphia area, as well as an activist opposing racism. She is currently active in actions organized by South Jersey for Gaza, calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the West Bank and an end to the genocide of Palestinian people being committed by the Israeli government.
She is opposing AIPAC-funded Congressman Donald Norcrosss in New Jersey Congressional District 1.
https://www.robinbrownfield4congress2024.com/
Thomas Cannavo - NJ CD-2
Thomas Cannavo grew up in Pennsville, Salem County and is a retired attorney and 25-year prosecutor. He worked for all three branches of government in CD-2.
People over profits is his theme, and making the quality of life of all citizens better is his goal. Tom feels that Congress has been taken over by the corporate oligarchs and special interests and he will work tirelessly to return government back to the people. The includes universal single payer improved Medicare for All, affordable housing as a human right, and phasing out of fossil fuels to be replaced with renewable and sustainable forms of energy, among other issues.
Tom is running for office for the first time, because he feels that ordinary citizens need to step up before our country and world are beyond repair. As the CD-2 Candidate for the Green Party, he will fight to end the Duopoly’s funding of the genocide in Gaza.
Tom has received the endorsement of Our Revolution of Ocean County.
https://cannavoforcongress.com/
Steve Welzer - NJ CD-3
Green Party candidate for the US House of Representatives in District 3 in 2024, Steven Welzer has been a movement activist for over thirty years. He was a founding member of the Green Party of New Jersey in 1997 and its candidate for governor in 2013. Steve is also the editor of Green Horizon Magazine.
Steve Welzer’s Facebook page
Barry Bendar - NJ CD-4
Barry Bendar graduated with a BA in Political Science from The William Paterson College of New Jersey in 1979. Barry has over 45 years of experience as an I.T. Professional, showcasing his expertise and dedication to his field. He moved to Forked River, Ocean County, in 1988 and has dedicated his life to serving his community and advocating for positive change.
Since 2009, Barry has been actively involved in local initiatives, serving as the Logistics Chair for the Relay for Life of Berkeley/Lacey. His dedication to cancer advocacy is also reflected in his role as the Congressional District 4 Lead for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, showcasing his deep concern for public health and well-being.
Barry’s commitment to environmental sustainability is demonstrated through his advocacy for the Shoreline retention project in Lacey Township. Additionally, he has long been associated with the Animal Protection League of New Jersey, championing the welfare of animals and promoting humane policies.
His activism is evident through his numerous roles and contributions. As a founding member and Live Outreach Coordinator of Voter Choice NJ, he has been at the forefront of the movement for Ranked Choice Voting, advocating for a fairer and more representative electoral system. His leadership as a GPNJ former Co-Chair and current Elections Chair further solidifies his commitment to progressive values and grassroots organizing.
Beau Forte - NJ CD-5
My name is Beau Forte. I am a father, husband, neighbor and homeowner in West Milford, born in Rochelle Park and raised by my father, aunt and grandparents. My father worked hard to ensure I had the best childhood he could provide. In 1981, he purchased the home that I grew up in, moving my grandparents and aunt in with us to help raise me. It was a source of great pride for him that he could provide my grandparents with their first yard for a garden and their first taste of freedom from rent worries.
I went on to graduate from River Dell Regional High School in Oradell and Lincoln Technical Institute in Mahwah. Aside from a brief few years in Massachusetts, I am a lifelong resident of North Jersey. I started my career with a building supply company in Maplewood, NJ and have spent most of the last 20 years employed as a manufacturer’s representative for The Sales Group, an independent sales agency. I covered multiple states as my territory and had the privilege of meeting and working with many wonderful people.
Herb Tarbous - NJ CD-6
Herb Tarbous was born in Summit, New Jersey. He graduated from North Plainfield High School. He attended Rutgers and earned a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University in 1981.
Herb’s is a retired systems engineer with over four decades of experience analyzing, designing, debugging, and documenting complex systems. He is a political activist focusing on electoral reform in New Jersey and is passionate about ending the toxic political polarization which plagues us and he is working hard to enable ranked-choice voting as a major step towards the goal of political diversity instead of political polarization and is a co-founder of VCNJ.
https://herbtarbousforcongress.godaddysites.com/
Andrew Black - NJ CD-7
Andrew Black was born in Oberlin, Ohio. He earned a high school diploma from Wellington High School and spent two years completing college courses in New York State.
For the last two decades, Andrew has called New Jersey home. He is a blue-collar worked with experience in warehousing and management.
Andrew has been married for ten years and is celebrating the arrival of their first child shortly.
Andrew is a hard-working and dedicated family man who will bring the same energy to fulfill his commitments to the constituents in Congressional District 7.
https://andrewblackforhouseofrep.org/
Christian "CJ" Robbins - NJ CD-8
My name is Christian John “CJ” Robbins, I come from my hometown of Medford, NJ, currently living in Old Bridge, NJ. I graduated from Shawnee High School 2015. I have an Associates’ in Science and a Bachelors in Communications from Rowan University. The issues I care about the most are a green new deal, universal healthcare, universal basic income, and a cease-fire in Gaza. I will also address the lack of affordable housing and for towards free mass transportation for those in CD 8.
https://www.instagram.com/cjfornj8th
Ben Taylor - NJ CD-9
I’m a mycologist, writer, and political activist running for Congress in New Jersey’s 9th Congressional District as a Green Party candidate. I graduated from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, in 2021 with a degree in Political Science. Growing up during the Financial Crisis of 2008 taught me many valuable lessons about the horrors of unchecked capitalism. Unfortunately, the American political system does not currently provide space for vocal opponents of big business. For far too long, the two-party system has failed American workers, with disastrous consequences for regular people.
That’s why I decided to run for Congress in 2024. You deserve to have another option on this year’s ballot: someone who will represent you and your community, fostering a genuine, human understanding of your needs. With the Green Party NJ, I’m fighting against the two-party system and demanding sustained rights for workers, women, communities of color, LGBTQ+ communities, and the environment.
I believe that the “change” so many of us were promised since the early 2000s will not be gifted to us by the ruling class. We, the working people of New Jersey, must stand up and demand these changes. Right now, the richest people in the country are accumulating more wealth than ever before, destroying our environment, our infrastructure, and our futures. Meanwhile, the number of people living paycheck-to-paycheck has ballooned out of control. This needs to change.
As a candidate from the Green Party NJ, I promise to never take corporate donations. Money has no place in the democratic process. Real, face-to-face human conversation is necessary for a democracy to function.
Our struggles are one struggle!
Eco-socialism for the working class and the indigenous peoples of the world! The movement cannot be silenced.
Ben currently serves as one of GPNJ’s elected State Co-chairs.
https://benforcongressnj.com/
Jon Serrano - NJ CD-10
Jon Serrano was born in Paterson,New Jersey. He earned a high school diploma from DePaul Catholic High School and an associate degree from Bergen Community College in 2021.
Jon is here to help create a positive change within the community through commitment to transparency, inclusive representation, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and addressing systemic injustices.
Jon currently serves as one of GPNJ’s elected State Co-chairs.
https://www.jon4congress.com/meet-jon
Lily Benavides - NJ CD-11
Lily Benavides’s journey began in the vibrant town of Cartago, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia. With a natural drive to make a difference, she embarked on her educational path at Colegio San Pedro Claver, graduating from primary school in 1976. She continued her studies at Colegio Nuestra Señora Del Rosario, completing her secondary education.
Lily’s passion for community service blossomed during her time in New Hampshire where she was a key figure in the New Hampshire Immigrant Rights Task Force. She organized rallies, testified before legislative committees, and formed alliances with human rights organizations. Her efforts led to the creation of a youth group, YOU (Young Community Organizers), which addressed discrimination and harassment in schools. This group continues to thrive today.
In 2004, Lily co-founded Orquideas de Colombia, a folkloric dance group aimed at promoting Colombian culture. The group performed across New Hampshire, including at the Statehouse and the New Hampshire Latino Festival. She also played a vital role in organizing the New Hampshire Latino Festival, directing a committee and helping to plan the only annual Latino festival in the state.
Lily’s dedication to political activism was evident when she served as a State Representative for Manchester, New Hampshire. She was a member of the Labor, Industrial, and Rehabilitative Services Committee. During this time, she also worked as the Hispanic Liaison for Bill Richardson’s Presidential Campaign, organizing forums, recruiting volunteers, and coordinating community efforts.
Her commitment to immigrant rights continued as she volunteered with the American Friends Service Committee in Newark, New Jersey. She supported campaigns for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), translated a book for incarcerated women, and participated in the Prison Watch Program. As a member of the AFSC Northeast Regional Executive Committee, she reviewed programs and budgets, providing essential recommendations.
Lily volunteered with Wind of the Spirit in Morristown, New Jersey, supporting campaigns for driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants and a $15 minimum wage. Her administrative skills and ability to connect with people made her an invaluable part of the team. In 2020 Lily coordinated volunteers for Mutual Morris, a mutual aid group in Morris County, New Jersey. Lily helped families in need by delivering essential items and researching sustainable resources. Lily co-founded the Mayor’s Committee on Accessibility, advocating for community members with disabilities. and is working towards making it an ordinance to ensure its continued impact.
Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish EJWA Cucharón de Palo, Arts, Crafts and Hobbies in 2022. This nonprofit organization provided a free, safe, and sustainable space for arts and crafts education. Despite its current inactivity due to a lack of funds, Lily remains hopeful for its future as a 501(c)(3) entity.
Throughout her journey, Lily has participated in various leadership programs. In 2006, she joined the American Friends Service Committee delegation to the Mexico and Arizona border to study migration causes. That same year, she was part of the New Hampshire Emerging Leaders in Communities of Color program, which empowered minority leaders. In 2019, she completed the Garden State Leaders Program, focusing on advocacy for residents with lived experiences of homelessness and poverty.
Lily is a dedicated family person, deeply committed to her husband, four children, and eight grandchildren. Lily’s passion for community service and advocacy is driven by the hope that her efforts today will ensure a brighter, more equitable future for them and for all children in her community.
Kimberly Meudt - NJ CD-12
My name is Kim Meudt and I am running to represent New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District. I am a long-time resident of South Jersey residing in Bellmawr NJ.
I have worked in the healthcare field for over 20 years. Presently working as a medical assistant in a Family practice office.
Since being with the Green Party I have served as a Nation Delegate and presently am Co-Chair of GPNJ.
I believe in expanding medicare for all, a ceasefire in Gaza and enacting a real Green New Deal. My campaign pledges to not take corporate donations.
For The 2023 General Election
Barry Bendar - NJ LD 9
Craig Cayetano - Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3
Craig Cayetano is running again for Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3. Craig is still involved with the Hawthorne Environmental Commission & Green Team. He’s a founding member of Voter Choice NJ, a board member of the Passaic County SPCA, a supporter of ANJEC and the Sierra Club. During the Covid-19 crisis he helped the community through creating Mutual Passaic County. During the 2021 at large council race he was the first New Jersey Green Party candidate to be endorsed by NJ Sierra Club and the NJ League of Conservation Voters. You can learn more about his campaign through his website and various social media.
From 2021
Madelyn Hoffman for Governor of New Jersey
Dominique Faison - NJ LD 11
Craig Cayetano – Hawthorne Town Council At-Large
Craig Cayetano is running for Hawthorne Town Council At-Large to represent the entire Town as opposed to just a single Ward (previously he ran to represent Ward 3). Craig is still involved with the Hawthorne Environmental Commission & Green Team. He’s a board member of the Passaic County SPCA, ANJEC and the Sierra Club. During the current Covid-19 crisis he’s stepped up with a fellow resident to launch Mutual Passaic County. They are assisting with meal deliveries, PPE drop offs, making calls and delivering groceries to seniors and those dramatically affected now.
https://www.cayetano4council.com/
From 2020
Howie Hawkins is the original Green New Dealer, the first US candidate to campaign for a Green New Deal in 2010.
He is also one of the original Greens in the United States, having participated in the first national meeting to organize a US Green Party in St. Paul, Minnesota in August 1984.
Howie became active in “The Movement” for civil rights and against the war in Vietnam in the 1960s as a teenager in the San Francisco Bay Area. Repelled by the racism and warmongering he saw in both major parties, he asked, “Where is my party?”
Angela Walker is an independent socialist who describes herself as “a Fred Hampton, Assata Shakur socialist.” She was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to a working-class Black family. She learned early that though money was necessary to live in this society, it was less important than integrity, cooperation, and dignity. This upbringing shaped the activist and organizer she later became.
Howie Hawkins for President / Angela Walker for VP
Madelyn Hoffman For US Senate
Madelyn Hoffman is running for US Senate in 2020. She ran an amazing campaign in 2018 and earned 25,150 votes against Sen. Menendez! She has been actively campaigning since being endorsed by GPNJ at the end of 2019. Madelyn is one of the state’s leading voices for peace for nearly two decades. Madelyn is also a strong advocate for the environment, having worked with more than 200 New Jersey communities and local governments over nearly 20 years to protect against toxic chemical pollution of New Jersey’s air, water and soil.
With a track record of environmental activism, social justice passions, and a willingness to speak truth to power Madelyn is what this country needs. Learn more about her campaign at www.hoffmanforsenate.com
Craig Cayetano ran for Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3 in 2019 and regretfully due to the passing of Garret Sinning there will be a special election on November 3rd, 2020. Craig is still involved with the Hawthorne Environmental Commission & Green Team. He’s a member of the Passaic County SPCA, ANJEC and the Sierra Club. During the current Covid-19 crisis he’s stepped up with a fellow resident to launch Mutual Passaic County. They are assisting with meal deliveries, PPE drop offs, making calls and delivering groceries to seniors and those dramatically affected now.
https://www.cayetano4council.com/
Craig Cayetano – Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3 *Special Election*
Jessica Clayton for Brick Township Board of Education
Jessica Clayton is a NJ certified teacher in both Preschool through 3rd grade and K-5. She graduated from Rutgers University & did graduate work at Montclair State University. She taught as a certified teacher in bilingual public preschool programs in both New Brunswick and Trenton for 6 years before opening up her state licensed home daycare here in Brick. She has worked with young children for over 15 years in various settings including as an assistant in a classroom for students with special needs, a camp counselor, a nanny, a para-professional, & a substitute. She is a founding member of a new non-profit, the Easter Region Associate of Forest and Nature Schools (ERAFANS) and am currently helping to organize an Outdoor Learning Retreat right here in Hopewell NJ. She has led professional development sessions teaching other educators about the value of outdoor play in nature.
From 2019...
Craig Cayetano – Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3
Craig Cayetano say “I’m a lifelong Northern New Jersey resident, predominantly from Bergenfield, but have resided in Hawthorne for fifteen years now. I’m second generation Peruvian on my father’s side and Italian/German descent on my mother’s. Both my mother and grandmother were hardworking waitresses so living paycheck to paycheck was our way of life. I had been a busboy for them from time to time. Then, I was hired to be a veterinary technician at sixteen and was self-taught. Even back then I was a very good listener. I had varied interests growing up: baseball, basketball, soccer, wrestling, band, debate but mainly science and the environment were my focus. I helped to form our high school Environmental Club. I was it’s president as well. I studied Biology, Political Science and Philosophy while attending community college before being thrust into the full-time sales workforce. I still am constantly studying one topic or another almost daily and am always learning.
I have always believed in and worked for fairness towards all political parties. Trying to always study all sides of the political spectrum and to develop a common sense or “real world” approach to issues. I have supported many Independent or Alternative candidates up and down the ballot in every election. After stepping away from politics, I re-engage during 2015 for the Sanders primary campaign and supported him until his concession. Since then, I have seen the control, influence and harm the two-party system has affected the electoral process. I respect those that still vote in every election but remain Independent or Unaffiliated. I understand why some have even decided not to vote. While volunteering on a few campaigns over the last few years I truly listen to their reasons and concerns. I honestly love conversing about the day-to-day issues that matter most to people. I strive to build the Green Party because it is focused on community, environment, labor and not beholden to any corporate interests or donors. I first started locally as a member, then Nationally as one of our state’s National Delegates and now as a State Co-Chair. I try to lead by example and have been a listener, activist, organizer and will be a strong advocate for the people here in Ward 3 and for all of Hawthorne.”
From 2018...
Madelyn Hoffman has been one of the state’s leading voices for peace for nearly two decades.
Madelyn is also a strong advocate for the environment, having worked with more than 200 New Jersey communities and local governments over nearly 20 years to protect against toxic chemical pollution of New Jersey’s air, water and soil.
With a track record of environmental activism, social justice passions, and a willingness to speak truth to power Madelyn is what this country needs. Learn more about her campaign at www.hoffmanforus.com
Madelyn Hoffman – US Senate
Diane Moxley – US Congress CD-7
Diane Moxley is Running for Congress as a candidate for The Green Party of New Jersey. She is also a mom, lawyer, activist, advocate for social justice and for human rights.
Diane got her undergrad degree in political science and philosophy from Kean University with her young daughter in tow at the on-campus daycare center. As an undergrad and single parent. She knew what it felt like to literally pinch pennies and other coins dug out of seat cushions to buy milk. Diane spent time on welfare lines. Then with some perseverance and a lot of loans, she graduated from CUNY Law with the specific purpose of serving those in need, those left behind without representation.
We have watched as successive governments chipped away at the things our families need in favor of building an imperialist empire. The military budget for 2018 is over $700 billion and was agreed upon almost unanimously by the current Congress. That money is better spent on education, infrastructure, and education geared towards developing a more peaceful world.
Johnnie Lattner is a dedicated public education advocate at the local, state and national level. He is the co-founder and Director of Community Relations for PULSE (Parents United for Local School Education) as well as a member of the coordinating committee for Journey for Justice, and a chairman of the #WeChoose campaign.
Mr. Lattner had the opportunity to travel to cities across the United States in cities such as Chicago, New Orleans, and Washington, DC where he researched community schools, restorative justice, local school councils, effect of charter schools expansion, moratorium on privatization, local control, student organizing, progressive revenue and equity assessments.
Commitment, Dedication, Experience, Putting the Community First, Not Just Words Action.
Johnnie Lattner – Newark Board of Education
AMP – A Movement of the People
For Newark Council
Election Date: May 8, 2018
Three of the four candidates on this team are Green Party members.
Contact:
www.amovementofthepeople.com
AMP on Facebook
amvmtofthepeople@gmail.com
Victor Monterrosa, Jr.
Victor grew up in the South Ironbound and is a constant advocate for his neighbors there and across the City. He is an attorney at Covenant House NJ and represents homeless youth all across the state. Before becoming a people’s lawyer, Victor spent 10 years organizing low-income tenants and played a key role to keep public housing from being demolished. Most recently, he helped form and lead Homes for All, a coalition of Newarkers who forced the City of Newark to adopt a strong Rent Control Ordinance.
Anthony Diaz
Anthony grew up in a big blue and white house on the corner of Weequahic and Maple avenues in the South Ward. As a student at Science High School on Rector Street, he successfully student campaign to ensure better classroom conditions and lunch programs. Anthony is a leader in the Black Lives Matter Newark. He advocates for affordable homes and community back development at city council meetings. He is committed to amplifying and centering community voices over politics as usual.
Hellane Freeman
Hellane has lived in the North Ward of Newark for over 40 years. She always been an advocate for her neighborhood and city. She worked as urban planner for 9 years across New Jersey and holds several Masters degrees from (Library Sciences to Public Administration). She is an active member and leader of the Homes for All Newark. She spoke and received the support of hundreds of Newarkers to get a strong Rent Control Ordinance in Newark.
Zellie Thomas is a lifelong Paterson resident, an accomplished educator and activist who is committed to creating safe, thriving and sustainable communities. All residents, regardless of ethnicity, creed, sexuality, gender or zip code, deserve access to living wage jobs, affordable housing and quality education. It’s time for leaders that bring accountability, integrity, and more inclusiveness to local government.
Contact:
http://www.zellieforpaterson.com/index.html
Zellie on Facebook
Read “Paterson Activist for Black Lives Matter declares run for council seat.”
Zellie Thomas – Paterson Council At Large
From 2017...
Seth Kaper-Dale for Governor
Seth Kaper-Dale has been pastor of the Reformed Church of Highland Park (RCHP), with his wife Stephanie, for 15 years. He and Stephanie graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary in 2001 and immediately assumed the office of co-pastors. Since then, Seth has led RHCP to deeply engage in issues of community development and political action. Seth has spearheaded interfaith efforts to end solitary confinement, aid refugees and asylees in their resettlement efforts, shelter the homeless, connect residents to affordable housing, and provide services for mental health consumers. As a candidate for Governor of New Jersey, Seth’s “The Last Are First” platform highlights this lifelong effort to ensure that those who have been overlooked and marginalized are rightly returned to the forefront of our collective political consciousness.
Seth joined congregants in creating Who Is My Neighbor Inc., which brought Highland Park a fair trade store, an after school program, and an affordable summer camp. Who Is My Neighbor Inc. has continued to grow and expand its programs for social change, widening the efforts to reach seniors and infants/caregivers.
Seth created RCHP-Affordable Housing Corp. in 2006. In the past 10 years RCHP-AHC has created housing for women aging out of foster care, homeless Veterans, re-entering citizens, justice-involved youth, chronically homeless mentally ill adults, refugees and asylees. In total RCHP-AHC owns or operates 17 buildings that house 91 tenants in supportive housing.
Since 2002 Seth has fought to keep families together who are facing the deportation of a parent. This has resulted in crafting legislation and finding sponsors to bring that legislation before the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate as well as state resolutions of support.
Seth is vice-chair of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture, and through that venue has supported efforts to end Solitary Confinement in NJ jails and prisons. Seth helped raise initial funding and support for Neighborcorps Reentry Services in Middlesex County; he is on the board of Churches Accomplishing Long Term Recovery and he helped start Church-Based Mental Health Services.
Seth believes firmly in the value of grassroots movement-based outreach to advance the causes of social, economic, and environmental justice. By doing so, we can restore the vitality and prosperity of the State of New Jersey through a wellspring that rises, from the bottom up, to the benefit of the greater collective good.
Troy Knight-Napper is a 31 year old father of two wonderful boys. A Bloomfield resident born in Newark, New Jersey and raised in East Orange, he has lived through the many trials that the middle class has endured. His main concern is paving the way to a better future for his children, as well as his fellow neighbors. His passion for breaking barriers makes him a progressive thinker.
Troy feels that marginalized communities deserve better than the status quo. Families living on the current minimum wage without assistance are unable to achieve the “American Dream” and their pursuit of happiness. The outdated war on drugs has unjustly incarcerated minorities for non-violent charges. The police have now become a militarized operation. The lack of police accountability within the police force has become troubling.
Troy believes the current policies held in New Jersey wrongly favor fossil fuels instead of renewable energy. Fossil fuels are not only harmful to the environment but also hurt the efficiency of our infrastructure, causing the loss of countless job opportunities. He will push legislation to advance renewable energy in New Jersey, making it a true pioneer and becoming an example for other states to emulate.
Once in office, he will continue to fight for the equal rights of the LGBTQ community. He will stand for the equality of women’s rights within the workforce and women’s healthcare. Troy will advance the battle to improve marginalized communities and stop policies that lead to gentrification patterns that destroy neighborhoods and leave so many loyal hard-working residents behind. He is committed to being both a leader and a listener, so that the best interests of his constituents will get the voice they deserve in the state legislature.
Troy Knight-Napper for State Senate LD-28
Mico Lucide for General Assembly LD-2
Mico Lucide has been throughout his adult life, a civic engagement advocate, an LGBTQ+ rights activist, and more recently, has been involved in various other human rights efforts through the Green Party. Passionately progressive, Mico was a co-coordinator and volunteer for Atlantic County for Bernie, the local chapter of Bernie Sanders’s campaign for the Democratic nomination in 2016. He joined the Green Party toward the end of 2016, and has taken part in various demonstrations and efforts supporting the people of Atlantic County.
Mico’s platform focuses on reducing government waste, both economic and environmental, and putting the livelihood of all people as a priority in New Jersey’s government. A living wage, health care for all, and reforming New Jersey’s spending and taxation to reduce the burden on typical taxpayers are at the forefront of his campaign.
“I feel like the government needs someone who comes from a background focused on fighting for people,” says Mico, “Someone focused on showing up at the rallies and marching with the picketers, someone focused on educating the people about their rights and how they can exercise those rights, someone focused on bringing the needs of the people to Trenton and not giving up until those needs are met. We don’t need more business people, we don’t need more lawyers. We need an Activist in the Assembly.”
Mico grew up in Egg Harbor Township, attended Stockton University for his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, concentrating in pre-law studies, and currently lives in Mays Landing.
Sean Stratton grew up in East Brunswick NJ, and has lived in Middlesex County his entire life. He attended Rutgers University where he graduated with a degree in Environmental Science in 2015. He currently works as an Environmental Consultant in New Jersey. A member of the American Industrial Hygienist Association, Stratton places an emphasis on safety not just in the workplace but also at home.
A staunch proponent for environmental protection and how it directly effects the health of local residents Stratton’s most recent advocacy for the residents of his district has been investigating lead concentrations in drinking water due to aging infrastructure and widespread use of lead in plumbing, even in newer homes. Stratton is an advocate for clean water for all and will continue to fight to ensure that our water is suitable to drink.
Stratton’s platform consists of four main points. Environmental Protection, rebuilding our failing infrastructure, expanding Medicare to all, and increasing the minimum wage to $15/hr.
Sean Stratton for General Assembly LD-18
Kenny Collins for General Assembly LD-24
Kenny Collins, A decorated US Army veteran and passionate environmentalist, Kenny has been a champion for protecting our food and water. He has initiated, organized and participated in numerous campaigns to protect the Delaware River Basin and our drinking water.
Endorsed by the NJ Sierra Club as a candidate for state assembly in 2015, Kenny’s constant engagement on behalf of our local environment and ecosystem spans over 10 years with the Delaware River Basin Commission and New Jersey Highlands Commission.
Aaron Hyndman, A Public Relations & Communications Consultant by profession and an activist and advocate for environmental, economic, and social justice by passion, Aaron’s recent political involvement includes a successful stint as the Sussex-Warren Regional Co-Coordinator for the Bernie Sanders campaign, where he spearheaded the Newton-based efforts that swung Sussex and Warren counties for Sanders against the tide of a decisive Hillary Clinton victory in the New Jersey primary. Aaron also served as Warren County Field Director for the Peter Jacob for Congress campaign in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.
Aaron did his undergraduate work at Princeton University and Rutgers University-New Brunswick, where he graduated summa cum laude. An alumnus of Rutgers University’s School of Communication & Information, he majored in communication, with areas of concentration in public policy, media studies, public relations, and critical theory.
In the community, Aaron does advocacy work through his positions with the Warren County Mental Health Advisory Board, New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition, and NAMI-NJ, among others. He’s also been involved in actions with 15 Now NJ, Coalition Against the Pilgrim Pipeline, North Jersey Indivisible, and many more. And perhaps most importantly, Aaron had the honor and privilege of mentoring and training young people across the area for over 12 years as a youth soccer coach and trainer.
Aaron Hyndman for General Assembly LD-24
Melissa Tomlinson for Atlantic County Freeholder At Large
Melissa Tomlinson, an educator with 15 years experience, is currently a special education teacher in Buena. The mother of 2 young men, she has lived in Atlantic County for 24 years. Melissa has decided to enter the political arena after devoting all of her spare time to running a grassroots public education advocacy organization for 4 years. As a public education advocate, she recognizes the need to develop strong relationships within a community, to create spaces for those whose voice has been minimized, and the importance of placing the children, as the guardians of our future, first. To do this, she has built relationships in her work with national, state, and local organizations such as Network for Public Education, the Journey for Justice Alliance, Black Lives Matter AC, SURJ NJ, and South Jersey Women for Progressive Change.
Barry Bendar has been an Information Technology Professional for 38 years, he currently is a Database Administrator for a large Health Care company working within New Jersey. Born in Passaic and raised in Monmouth County, Barry, his Wife and two Children (Twins) have been residents of Ocean County for 29 years.
Having been active in Ocean County politics since 2003, he has seen firsthand that the relationship between the two major parties in New Jersey is not healthy for the average resident, and plans on making that abundantly clear as part of his campaign to be elected to the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders.
Having been an activist for the environment for years, Barry feels that this “unhealthy alliance” between the parties will end up destroying all those things that make Ocean County and New Jersey unique, all for the sake of short term monetary gain. He firmly believes that both his own county and the state need to turn their attention to “Green” manufacturing, which will help save what’s left of our environment while creating sustainable jobs. Political corruption is a pet peeve of his and when elected, he will work tirelessly to bring the rampant amount ongoing in Ocean County to light.
Barry Bendar for Ocean County Freeholder At Large
Henry Arthur Green, III for Mayor of Atlantic City
Henry “Hank” Green was born and raised in Atlantic City, a 46 year old father of three daughters. Henry, a product of the welfare system, social services, and Section 8 housing, says that he has his “mother’s heart and soul” who despite living and raising children in these conditions never turned anyone in need away. Henry has fought to provide for the youth and people of Atlantic City throughout his adult life and continues to do so as he runs for Mayor of Atlantic City. Henry has a broad focus of policies including Youth Development, Reduced taxes, Local Economic Development, Fiscal Responsibility, AC First Employment, Addiction Rehabilitation assistance for residents, Local Entrepreneurship and fixing drainage issues.
Jessica Clayton is a NJ certified teacher in both Preschool through 3rd grade and K-5. She graduated from Rutgers University & did graduate work at Montclair State University. She taught as a certified teacher in bilingual public preschool programs in both New Brunswick and Trenton for 6 years before opening up her state licensed home daycare here in Brick. She has worked with young children for over 15 years in various settings including as an assistant in a classroom for students with special needs, a camp counselor, a nanny, a para-professional, & a substitute. She is a founding member of a new non-profit, the Easter Region Associate of Forest and Nature Schools (ERAFANS) and am currently helping to organize an Outdoor Learning Retreat right here in Hopewell NJ. She has led professional development sessions teaching other educators about the value of outdoor play in nature.
Earning well over 8000 votes and key endorsements through her broad-based grassroots campaign, Jessica finished with the number one vote total in her municipal race and was elected to a position on the Brick Township Board of Education this November 2017. CONGRATULATIONS, JESSICA!