Citing his "exemplary leadership," a caucus of elected officials in the City of Paterson today opted not to endorse veteran U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-8) of Paterson, as the group also praised U.S. Rep. Steve Rothman (D-9) for his "exemplary leadership."

"Both Congressman Pascrell and Congressman Rothman have provided exemplary leadership and developed impressive support mechanisms for the issues that are important to our communities," the caucus said in a release as the two Democratic congressmen scramble for support.

"They are adamant supporters of Healthcare for all Americans, jobs for New Jerseyans, protecting our communities from terrorism, the DREAM Act and Comprehensive Immigration Reform. They are both great for New Jersey and the loss of either one will prove to be detrimental for our great state and nation. 

"As non-partisan elected officials, we hold great esteem and admiration for both of these Congressional Democratic leaders."

Insiders interpreted the group's decision not to back home town son Pascrell in heavily Latino Paterson as a blow to the congressman.

City Council Vice-President Julio Tavarez, Councilman-at-Large Rigo Rodriguez, Board of Education Vice President Alex Mendez and Commissioners Wendy Guzman and Pedro Rodriguez singled out the redistricting process as a problem.

"The results of the New Jersey congressional redistricting process are flawed at best and proof that gerrymandering is still prevalent at worst," said the group. "The latest edition of this process, which takes place every 10 years after the Census, has resulted in an unfair redrawing of New Jersey's congressional districts.  The map that was selected by the New Jersey Redistricting Commission not only divides communities of interests, but also favors ultra-conservative right-wing politicians and pins two great congressional leaders in a fight that will conclude with less effective, efficient, balance and just representation for the state of New Jersey."

Rodriguez stands at the center of an unresolved 2010 voter fraud case in which state law enforcement authorities arrested him and political associates for alleged ballot tampering.