Passaic County Democratic Committee Announces 2026 Primary Election Candidates
February 14th, 2026
WOODLAND PARK, NJ — The Passaic County Democratic Committee today conducted its official screening of candidates seeking the Democratic nomination for elected offices in the June 2, 2026, Democratic Primary Election. Following a comprehensive and inclusive screening process, Chairman John Currie announced the unanimous selection of the following candidates as the official Passaic County Democratic Committee endorsed slate:
U.S. Senate: Cory Booker
Congressional District 5: Josh Gottheimer
Congressional District 9: Nellie Pou
Congressional District 11: Analilia Mejia
County Surrogate: Zoila Cassanova
County Commissioner: Nick Veliky
County Commissioner: Orlando Cruz
“Today’s screening process reaffirms our Democratic Party’s commitment to identifying the most qualified and dedicated individuals to represent the diverse communities of Passaic County,” said Passaic County Democratic Chairman John Currie. “Our municipal leaders, representing Democratic organizations across all 16 municipalities and selected from elected County Committee members from every voting district, interviewed individuals who responded to our open call for candidates. This process ensures transparency, fairness, and the selection of candidates who are prepared to lead and serve.”
Chairman Currie noted that the selected candidates reflect a strong balance of experienced leadership and new voices, each with deep roots in the community and a shared commitment to effective governance, responsible fiscal management, and improving the quality of life for Passaic County residents.
“As we welcome our 2026 Democratic team, I also want to express my sincere gratitude to County Commissioner Bruce James for his decades of dedicated public service,” Currie added. “Commissioner James has served with distinction as a County Commissioner, labor leader, Highlands Commission member, and public servant. Commissioner James has always been a tireless advocate for our residents. While he has chosen not to seek re-election, he remains an active member of the Passaic County Democratic Committee and a valued supporter of our candidates.”
Important Voting Information & Deadlines for 2026
Make sure YOUR vote will count, however you choose to cast it!
CD11 Special General Election: Thursday, April 16th, 2026
Voters in Little Falls, Totowa, Woodland Park, and the 11th District portion of Wayne will elect a member of Congress to serve the remaining portion of the term vacated when Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill became Governor of New Jersey.
Election Day - April 16th - Polls Open 6am to 8pm
Early Voting: April 6th through April 14th:
Monday to Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm
Vote by Mail Application Deadline: April 9th
Voter Registration Deadline: March 26th
Democratic Primary Election: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026
Election Day - June 2nd - Polls Open 6am to 8pm
Early Voting: May 26th through May 31st:
Tuesday to Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm
Vote by Mail Application Deadline: May 26th
Voter Registration Deadline: May 12th
Welcome, from Chairman John Currie:
John Currie
Passaic County Democratic Chairman
Dear friends,
Passaic County is a special place. From the 3rd largest city in our state in Paterson, to the vast woodlands and watersheds of West Milford, and everything in between, it is truly a cross-section not just of New Jersey, but of America. Many of our residents have deep family roots here spanning back several generations, while others look to us as a destination to lay the foundation for a new and prosperous future.
The Passaic County Democratic Committee, and I as Chairman, hold the firm belief that there is a place for everyone here, and are committed to providing the best services and quality of life possible for every one of our residents. Public safety, maintaining and upgrading county roads and parks, workforce development and job training, social services, and a top-rate Technical High School and Passaic County Community College are just some of the services Passaic County provides for our residents. We know you work hard for your money, and are proud to have a strong record of sound financial management while providing quality services, as recognized by multiple independent credit agencies. Under the guidance of the Democratic Board of County Commissioners, Passaic County has had no tax increase for five of the past 6 years - better than any other county in New Jersey.
Please explore our website and be sure to follow our social media accounts to learn more about our party and to learn how YOU can get involved!
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
info@pcdems.com
Phone
(973) 279-4647
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