Abate and Shulman announce new endorsements

Fifth district Democratic congressional candidate Dennis Shulman rolled out some new Bergen County endorsements today, touting them as a sign that the Bergen County Democratic Organization is coalescing behind him. But his primary opponent, Camille Abate, issued a press release listing several Bergen County endorsements as well.

Shulman, a Demarest resident, announced the support of state Sen. Bob Gordon and Dumont Mayor Matt McHale. Shulman was also endorsed by Dumont council members Ellen Zamechansky, Marty Caspare and Harry Stylianou.

Earlier this week, Shulman announced endorsements by Assemblywoman Connie Wagner and Garden State Equality Chair Steven Goldstein.

Abate today announced the support of Waldwick Mayor Russell Litchult, Oradell Councilman Andrew Rudman, Glen Rock Councilman Byron Arnao, Wyckoff activist Stanley Goodman and Emerson Environmental Commission Chairwoman Joan Martin. Abate’s most prominent endorsement so far comes from Passaic County Sheriff Jerry Speziale, and she has the support of several unions.

Shulman and Abate are fighting a primary to ultimately wage a long-shot campaign against fifth district incumbent Scott Garrett. While Shulman looks more and more poised to get the BCDO’s line, it’s not clear whether the organization plans to throw many resources into his race.