In a formal, joint statement, Newark City Council President Donald Payne Jr. and Jersey City Councilman Steven Fulop endorsed each other today.

Payne is running to fill the Congressional seat vacated by his late father Donald Payne Sr., while Councilman Fulop is a declared candidate for mayor of Jersey City in the 2013 election.

“I am proud to stand with the Payne family, which has a track record of accomplishment for Jersey City and in Congress," Fulop said. “Last year we won the majority of the county committee seats in Jersey City, against the organization off the party line, and we fully intend on leveraging that infrastructure for Donald Payne Jr. this year.” He continued, “We are going to go at this strong for Council President Payne, and we will help him win. I am excited about this partnership, not just for now but for years into the future, as I know Donald will continue the strong legacy of his father.” 

Fulop’s team has won the last three consecutive school board elections in record numbers and his team won the majority of county committee seats last year in Jersey City, which included ousting the previous chairman. 

“Steven Fulop has been a strong and independent voice for Jersey City. I am excited about endorsing him and working as a partner with him, as I believe he is the next mayor of Jersey City," said Payne. "It is refreshing when people get involved in politics for the right reason, serving our community. I am looking forward to campaigning alongside Steven's campaign for mayor as the Congressman from the 10th district.”