January 22, 2009 - 12:19pm
News

Ex-Glen Ridge mayor says he'll challenge Corzine in Democratic primary

Former Glen Ridge Mayor Carl Bergmanson says he'll announce his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for Governor within the next two weeks.

Former Glen Ridge Mayor Carl Bergmanson says he wants to challenge Gov. Jon Corzine and expects to enter the race for the Democratic nomination for Governor within the next few weeks. 

"The Corzine Administration has been a complete failure at every level, and if Democrats don't stand up now and demand better leadership, we're dooming the state to either a Republican Governor in 2010, or four more years of Jon Corzine's incompetence," Bergmanson told PolitickerNJ.com

Bergmanson was elected to the Glen Ridge Council as an Independent in 1990.  He gave up his seat to run unsuccessfully for Mayor in 1999, but returned and won election as Mayor in 2003.  He didn't run again in 2007, but instead discussed a possible campaign to recall Corzine.  He launched his exploratory committee on January 12 and says "the reception thus far has been completely positive."

"Barring some unforeseen circumstance, I will be announcing my candidacy for the Democratic Nomination for Governor within the next two weeks," Bergmanson said.

Perth Amboy Councilman Kenneth Balut is also reportedly considering a run for Governor.  Balut, a former local PBA President and retired police officer, won a Council seat in May 2008 on a ticket with Mayor Wilda Diaz.

Editor can be reached via email at editor@politicsnj.com.