Age: 61

Hometown: Bordentown

Occupation: Physician, Assemblyman

Personal background: I am the son of a teacher and nurse and a lifelong resident of Burlington County. Shaped by the service of my parents, I decided to give back to my community. I received an undergraduate degree from Princeton University, a medical degree from Jefferson Medical College, and a law degree from Rutgers Law School in Camden. After finishing my education, I joined the U.S. Air Force as a Captain in the Medical Corps at McGuire Air Force Base. There, I served as a general medical officer and rose to assistant director of the primary care clinic during my four years of service. Following my internal medicine residency, I began to practice in primary care settings before moving on to work as a clinical professor in an inner-city community hospital, teaching the next generation of physicians. Currently, I serve as the Director of the Burlington County Health Department.

Political background: I have served the residents of New Jersey’s 7th Legislative District as an Assemblyman for 26 years. I am the 18-year Chairman of the Health Committee, a member of the Budget Committee, and a member of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. In these roles, I played a leading role in passing New Jersey’s most significant health laws including New Jersey’s health insurance marketplace, caps on hospital bills and mental health screening for students. In addition, I’ve sponsored successful legislation establishing New Jersey’s school funding formula; protected retirement income from taxation; increased fiscal accountability within school districts; added technology to core curriculum standards; and modernized nutritional standards in public schools. Furthermore, I have sponsored successful legislation on environmental protection, property tax relief, veterans services, and public safety. For 18 years, I’ve been a leader in the Democratic Assembly Caucus with past service as Majority Leader and current service as Deputy Speaker, a position I’ve held for several years.

Reason for running: I’m running because I love our country and have and will continue, come what may, to serve. This is the most consequential election of our lifetime. Never before have we seen a major party candidate for the United States presidency elevate autocracy as a governing principle. History instructs that autocracy can happen here. Years ago, I raised my hand in defense of our nation and now have heard the call to action. With democracy on the ballot, Congress must be returned to democratic control. I am enraged by the fact that women today have less rights than their mothers or grandmothers. The arc of freedom should be toward justice, not away from it. I seek to join a Congress that will make Roe the law of the land by statute. My legislative record is unmatched by anyone else in this race. My education and record of accomplishment outside of politics and government make me the best candidate to succeed Andy Kim in representing the constituents of the 3rd congressional district. If elected, I’ll put democracy first, place our country over ourselves, stand for equal rights and continue Congressman Kim’s constituent service record.

Biggest issue: I believe the single biggest issue in this election is protecting democracy against authoritarianism. President Lincoln taught us that a house divided can not stand. In public and private life, I’ve sought to decrease tensions by speaking to the head and heart. I do so to build consensus from our shared values. We have to mend the divide in our country and stop the spread of polarization that lays the path for authoritarianism to rise. We must protect our democratic institutions and values – press and academic freedom, free speech and association and an independent judiciary, among others.

On the federal government’s role in women’s reproductive health: Federal elected officials should have no role in the examination room. We physicians base decisions on medical science that is ever changing. The collaborative work that women and their physicians undertake to advance a woman’s health or access to IVF should be protected. In response to the Dobbs decision, I fought to protect women’s rights by increasing funding and establishing legal protections for those seeking treatment. When Republicans, led by Governor Chris Christie, cut funding for critical reproductive health services, I championed the legislation to restore it. As a Congressman, I plan on taking my track record in Trenton to our nation’s capital. It is of the utmost importance that we codify Roe v. Wade into national law so that we can protect the women of this country and their right to choose. I also plan on introducing and supporting other pieces of legislation that focus on strengthening women’s healthcare rights even further. This includes legislation such as the “Right to Contraception Act”, introduced by Rep. Kathy Manning (D-NC), which would set out statutory protections for an individual’s right to access and a health care provider’s right to provide contraception. If elected, I will sign on to that bill when it is re-introduced.

On the U.S. transition to clean energy: I’m proud of my record on advancing climate action and clean energy. For one, I have consistently supported any and every effort to transition our state away from fossil fuels, including Governor Phil Murphy’s laudable effort to grow New Jersey’s burgeoning offshore wind industry and return our state to membership in the regional greenhouse gas initiative. While wind will be a major piece of decarbonization, I have been an outspoken supporter of green hydrogen as a source of carbon-free energy. I’ve introduced several bills to promote the technology, including A4111, which extends existing plug-in electric vehicle incentives to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, A3903 which directs the installation of hydrogen refueling stations at service areas on New Jersey’s toll roads, and A3904, which provides corporation business tax credits and gross income tax credits for the purchase of certain hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Such measures, if made federal law, will build on the Biden administration’s national investment in hydrogen hubs. Additionally, the federal government must ensure that the electrical grid and transmission networks meet the challenges posed by the transition to clean, renewable energy.

On ensuring free and fair elections and the transition of power: As noted above, protecting our democratic institutions is the single most important issue in this election. The best way Congress can ensure free and fair elections is by protecting the right to vote. Congress must pass the “John Lewis Voting Rights Act” that establishes new criteria for determining which states and political subdivisions must obtain preclearance before changes to voting practices may take effect. It is also important for Congress to pass the “For the People Act” that makes election day a federal holiday and decreases the role of dark money in elections. Until such time as the Electoral College is abolished, its deliberations must be protected from fraud and insurrection. Laws must be enacted to require the officials of an outgoing administration to collaborate with officials of an incoming one. Sadly, in the wake of recent history, our nation must develop a constitutional means to counteract any attempt at insurrection initiated by an outgoing President of the United States. History will repeat itself.

On the U.S. role in foreign conflicts: The United States is an indispensable nation – the beacon of light for freedom-seeking people around the world. One critical way the U.S. and its allies can advance freedom is to support with arms those allies facing attack by authoritarian regimes and terrorists. The lengthy dithering by the Republican-led House regarding aid to our allies is nothing short of a dereliction of duty and a failure to understand the geopolitical significance of Ukraine and Israel. Failure by Ukraine to defend its sovereignty from Russian aggression will only beget more Russian aggression against the Baltic states and central Europe – a situation that could easily ignite a third World War requiring the engagement of U.S. military personnel. I have long held that the U.S. must be a guarantor of Israeli sovereignty and, therefore, I support the billions in additional military aid recently provided for the defense of the Israeli state on a bipartisan basis. I support the President’s position on the need to eliminate the regional threat posed by Hamas, hostage release, and humanitarian aid for the Palestinian people. I also support the long held U.S. policy regarding the need for a two-state solution accomplished through bilateral negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.

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Age: 60

Hometown: Holmdel

Occupation: Cardiologist

Personal background: Website

Political background: I am a Political Outsider. Congress needs a common sense, issue based problem solver with no personal agendas and an open mind. Now more than ever, what is required in Congress is that instead of Career Politicians and polarizing people in both parties, a Republican like me who speaks up and works fearlessly, is fact based, with no pretensions, and an audacity to take on special interests for the good of the people. People who know me and have come to know me are more than assured, confident and excited for the results that they know I will bring when I get to Congress.

Reason for running: Guided by the teachings of my parents and my high-school motto, “Service before Self”, I have tried to improve the lives of patients all my adult life to the best of my God given abilities. I seek to do the same as a Congressman for all – Republicans, Independents, and Democrats. As a Political Outsider and the first Physician to have won the Republican nomination from the state of New Jersey, I bring clear-thinking, issue-based problem-solving work ethic with real-world experience, expertise and success and a passion to make lives better, for all Americans. My Commitment to Voters is that unlike Career Politicians, I have no personal agendas and will serve with empathy and strength. I will make healthcare work for patients not insurance companies, cut taxes, help small businesses, secure our borders, stop illegal immigration, protect Medicare and Social Security, keep government out of our daily lives and keep medical care between patients and doctors, men and women. I have always put patients first. Now it is time to teach politicians how to keep people first.

Biggest issue: Career Politicians have a habit of working in silos, mainly for personal gain and their own job security. It helps them divide people, from which they benefit, not the people. Most issues are interconnected and need to be solved. People in Congress should be able to see the forest and the trees and work for the best interest of the people, not themselves – which is when the people’s issues will be addressed. I have done it in the private sector and will do it in Congress.

On the federal government’s role in women’s reproductive health: I am a cardiologist who has treated pregnant women including with high-risk pregnancies on whom I get consulted on. I practice evidence-based medicine every day including guidelines by the American College of OB & GYN. I am best qualified to lead and restore the patient-doctor relationship and stop the interference by government and insurance companies. No one, including the Democrats for all their noise, have done it or even want to do it. I will protect Women’s Health and Rights which should be second to none and ensure medical care is based on medical science, respecting each patient’s beliefs and faith which may vary even in the same religion.

On the U.S. transition to clean energy: Climate change is a real and an existential crisis. However, it is not a switch that can be turned off or on and expect tangible results without disrupting the lives of people and the economy. It should be addressed by effective policies that are based on science, availability of resources, development of infrastructure and supply chain, without making us dependent on other countries for our energy needs and economy. Mitigation of the climate crisis can be done in a smart, science based transition of our energy needs with minimal negative impact on our economy and livelihoods. In fact, if done right, it would make us leaders in innovation and energy, bringing more jobs and a better economy.

On ensuring free and fair elections and the transition of power: I would want and help write a stronger, more comprehensive Voting Rights Act to prevent voter discrimination, voter fraud, incentivize and improve ease of voter registration and increase voter participation including availability of a day off to individuals who provide proof of voting on a given day including early voting and election day voting.

Any act that is vague does not solve any problem. Instead, such acts with ill-defined language of “advancing standard and reforms” with no tangible outcomes are just an exercise of pushing paper. Consequential Acts must be well defined, contain specific requirements and metrics with measurable short, medium and long term results. People in Congress need to to do a job that must be such that the public regains trust in our government and institutions. Right now almost 80% of Americans DO NOT trust the government. Until that trust level is significantly improved, turmoil in our society will continue or get worse.

On the U.S. role in foreign conflicts: There will not be a stronger supporter of the Jewish people and Israel in Congress than me. Israel has a right to defend itself and wipe out Hamas, its scourge and barbarism. It is sad and tragic that there has been so much human misery which is mainly due to Hamas using Palestinians as human shields. Hamas does not care about Palestinians or the hostages, They are worried about their own lives. Hamas needs to be eradicated and the hostages must be brought home. There must be zero-tolerance for terrorism.

The Ukraine conflict has the makings of the beginnings of Cold War 2.0. I believe in Peace through Strength, so that Americans are not harmed and no one takes us for granted. By projecting strength and resolve on the global stage, our aim must be to deter aggression and promote peace and prosperity at home and abroad. A strong and resolute America serves as a deterrent to those who seek to undermine our nation’s security and stability. We must tie foreign aid to accountable and tangible objectives that align with our national security interests. I advocate for a results-driven approach to foreign assistance, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are invested wisely to promote stability and security in regions of strategic importance. We must ensure close coordination with allies, particularly within NATO, to address international hotspots effectively. I believe in unity among like-minded nations to confront common threats. I strongly believe that the only time our brave armed forces should be called upon is when our nation or national interests need to be protected.

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Age: 74

Hometown: East Windsor

Occupation: Editor, Green Horizon Magazine

Personal background: I was born in Newark and have been a New Jersey resident all my life. I earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree from Rutgers University. I worked in tech support for the New Jersey Judiciary for almost 25 years.

Political background: I was a founding member of the Green Party of New Jersey (GPNJ) in 1997 and a co-chair of the Green Party of the United States in 2012-2013. I was the GPNJ candidate for Governor of New Jersey in 2013.

Reason for running: There is a constituency that supports Green politics. Those voters look forward to seeing a Green Party candidate on their ballot.

Biggest issue: Opening up our electoral system to “more voices and more choices.” Voters tell pollsters that they’re dissatisfied with the ongoing only-two-significant-choices system. There are changes we can make that would enable alternative parties to compete on an equal basis. Ranked-choice Voting is one reform that many states and cities have been implementing.

On the federal government’s role in women’s reproductive health: I advocate ensuring full reproductive rights and bodily autonomy for women. We should codify Roe v Wade in legislation. Our goal should be that every baby born is a wanted child.

On the U.S. transition to clean energy: . Invest in renewable energy infrastructure across the nation, including wind, solar, tidal, and geothermal, with battery and energy storage; build a nationwide, publicly-owned smart electricity grid.

. End all forms of subsidies to the fossil fuel industry; create an Office of Climate Mobilization to coordinate policy changes and other needed interventions to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions.

. Transfer some of the billions going toward armaments production toward funding the manufacture of renewable energy and clean transportation technologies; in doing so we could generate millions of good-paying union jobs that green the economy.

. Ensure a Just Transition for workers shifting from the fossil fuel and other extractive and polluting industries.

. Prioritize energy efficiency and conservation; require new buildings to demonstrate zero emissions by 2035 and retrofit existing buildings; subsidize installation of heat pumps to replace fossil fuels for heating and cooling.

. Chemicalized and industrialized corporate agribusiness is driving family farmers off the land, rural America into depression and ecosystems to collapse while failing to end hunger and malnutrition; the corporate agribusiness model is also depleting water aquifers and soils and driving insects to extinction, all leading to the collapse of ecosystems.

On ensuring free and fair elections and the transition of power: . Replace the exclusionary “only-two-significant-parties” system with full multi-party democracy through ranked-choice voting and proportional representation

. Institute full public financing of elections … get the corrupting influence of private money out of politics

. Abolish the Electoral College; elect the president via national popular vote using ranked-choice voting

. Support a modern Voting Rights Act, including non-partisan redistricting commissions and same-day voter registration nationwide.

On the U.S. role in foreign conflicts: The bipartisan endless war machine enriches military contractors, lobbyists, and politicians, while it fuels devastation around the world and drains funds from our domestic needs. The Pentagon budget consumes over half of the discretionary federal budget! We must create a new foreign policy based on diplomacy, international law, and human rights to lead the way to a new era of peace and cooperation. If we cut the military budget by 50% our country would still be spending twice as much as any other country in the world.

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Age: 61

Hometown: Camden

Occupation: Law enforcement

Personal background: I was born and raised in Camden N.J. I have been a law enforcement officer for 31 years. I attended Camden High School graduated 1981.

Political background: I have been a State Delegate leader for the State PBA. I have worked with elected officials to get new contracts for our officers.

Reason for running: I am running for office because it’s time for change. It’s time for politics to change as we know it in New Jersey. It’s time for full transparency. It’s time to give the power back to the people.

Biggest issue: Transparency.

On the federal government’s role in women’s reproductive health: I believe that federal government should not have the right to tell a woman what she should do with her body.

On the U.S. transition to clean energy: I believe that the government should start with making more electric vehicles. The vehicles should be affordable for everyone.

On ensuring free and fair elections and the transition of power: I believe that who ever runs for election should be treated equally. I believe that the raising of campaign funds is a problem. The transition of power should be handled by mature adults.

On the U.S. role in foreign conflicts: I believe that the United States should take care of home first. I believe that we should help other countries but not to the extent that we have people here homeless and hungry.

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Age: 43

Hometown: Southampton

Occupation: Business owner

Personal background: Justin Barbera’s journey from college athlete to successful business owner to independent candidate is a tale of ambition, perseverance, and determination. As a collegiate athlete, Justin displayed exceptional leadership skills both on and off the field. His competitive spirit and drive for excellence set him apart, leading him to numerous victories and accolades throughout his athletic career.

After hanging up his jersey, Justin transitioned into the business world, where he thrived as an entrepreneur. His innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and strong work ethic propelled his company to success, earning him a reputation as a visionary leader in his industry. However, Justin’s passion for making a difference extended beyond the boardroom.

Driven by a desire to create positive change in his community, Justin decided to run as an independent candidate. With a platform centered on inclusivity, transparency, and progress, he inspired many with his vision for a brighter future. Through grassroots efforts and genuine connection with voters, Justin garnered support from diverse groups and gained momentum as a formidable contender in the political arena.

Justin Barbera’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, dedication, and courage. His evolution from athlete to business owner to independent candidate embodies the transformative impact one individual can have on society when fueled by passion and purpose.

Political background: Justin Barbera, the politician, is a beacon of hope for the voiceless and a staunch advocate for life. His unwavering belief in the foundational principles of our nation, rooted in God and the Trinity of Christ, guides his mission to rebuild a country that is visibly deteriorating around us. Justin understands the urgency of revitalizing our nation’s values, morals, and integrity to create a brighter future for all Americans.

In a political landscape marred by division and partisanship, Justin champions the independent movement as the only way to reshape the trajectory of our country. Through his compelling speeches in television interviews and town halls, Justin eloquently conveys the importance of uniting under a common purpose to overcome the challenges we face. He envisions a nation where independent patriots stand together to reclaim the spirit of unity and progress that defines America.

As Justin marches forward towards the November election, he tirelessly shares his platform with communities far and wide, inspiring individuals to join him in this transformative journey. Justin Barbera symbolizes the power of dedication, vision, and courage in shaping a future where every voice is heard, and every life is valued.

Reason for running: Justin Barbera is running for office with a singular focus – our children. He believes that the next generation deserves an America we can be proud of, and it is our responsibility to ensure that it remains a nation we recognize. Justin envisions an America that continues to shine as a beacon of freedom and hope for the world, standing tall on Capitol Hill. His commitment to building a better future for our youth drives his mission to restore integrity, unity, and prosperity to our great nation. Justin’s candidacy embodies a vision of progress and promise for generations to come.

Biggest issue: The two-party system in America poses a significant threat to the nation’s core values and principles. George Washington’s warning about the dangers of political parties gaining too much power resonates strongly today. The Independent Patriot movement offers a promising solution by emphasizing unity, non-partisan collaboration, and prioritizing the voice of the people above party interests. By aligning with this movement, we can work towards restoring the essence of freedom and democracy that America was founded upon. Embracing a more inclusive and independent approach to politics will help safeguard our nation’s legacy as a beacon of liberty and inspire others around the world.

On the federal government’s role in women’s reproductive health: Strengthening the federal government’s role on abortion to enact a national ban on the murder of the innocent is paramount in establishing a culture that reveres life and upholds the moral fabric of America. By implementing stringent laws and regulations, the government can protect the rights of the unborn and ensure their right to life is preserved.

It is imperative to promote initiatives that support victims of violence and abuse, providing them with the necessary resources and assistance to rebuild their lives. Additionally, offering support to parents considering adoption can help provide loving homes for children in need.

Federal funding directed towards aiding victims of violence and supporting the innocent in every possible way is crucial to fostering a society that values compassion and justice. Let us work together to create a nurturing environment where life is cherished, morals are upheld, and every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.

On the U.S. transition to clean energy: Releasing technology that unlocks the potential for free energy could revolutionize the way we power our world and pave the way for a sustainable future. Utilizing advancements in technology that have been withheld from the public, such as those reportedly used by Nikola Tesla and ancient pyramid builders, could provide access to abundant and environmentally friendly energy sources.

In the meantime, tapping into domestic resources like the Alaska pipeline and maximizing our drilling capabilities can help reduce our reliance on imported fuels and enhance energy self-sufficiency. By embracing innovative solutions and leveraging our existing resources, we can move towards a future where clean and cost-effective energy is accessible to all, driving progress and prosperity for generations to come.

On ensuring free and fair elections and the transition of power: Protecting our vote is crucial to upholding the foundation of our nation’s democracy. Voting in person ensures accountability and minimizes the risk of corruption. While mail-in ballots provide convenience, they should be reserved for individuals who are unable to physically go to a polling location. Safeguarding our ballots with armed security is vital to protect the integrity of the voting process. Our vote is as precious as our money, and just like we take measures to secure our finances, we must also take steps to safeguard our ballots. By prioritizing the protection of our votes, we preserve the essence of democracy and ensure that our voices are heard in a fair and transparent manner.

On the U.S. role in foreign conflicts: Redirecting resources from foreign aid and wars towards addressing domestic issues like homelessness is a valid point of concern. By prioritizing the needs of our own citizens, we can work towards solutions that benefit our communities directly. Focusing on America first does not mean isolationism, but rather a responsible approach to ensuring the well-being of our nation before extending support elsewhere. By reevaluating our financial and military commitments abroad, we can redirect funds towards initiatives that help us thrive as a country. It’s essential to strike a balance between global responsibilities and taking care of our own people to create a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

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