‍POLITICAL ENDORSEMENT PRESS RELEASE

‍

Contact Information:

Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ)

Matthew Caliente, President

mcaliente@newjerseyfirefighers.org

Release Date:
September 17, 2025

‍‍‍FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

‍

PFANJ MEMBERS REAFFIRM NEUTRALITY IN 2025 GOVERNOR’S RACE

‍

TRENTON, NJ – September 17, 2025 – After a robust and spirited debate at the most recent meeting of the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ), the membership reaffirmed the Executive Board’s recommendation to remain neutral in the 2025 New Jersey Governor’s race.

Both leading candidates, former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, were thoroughly discussed during the meeting. While members expressed strong opinions, the ultimate decision was to support the Executive Board’s position and maintain neutrality in this election.

“Today’s debate reflected the strength of our democratic process and the unity of our organization,” said PFANJ President Matthew Caliente. “Both candidates have spoken to our issues and understand the challenges facing New Jersey’s first responders. At the end of the day, our members made their voices heard, and we stand together in reaffirming neutrality. Regardless of the outcome of the Governor’s race, the PFANJ will always fight for the first responders of this state and ensure their voices are represented at every level of government: local, state, and federal.”

The PFANJ remains committed to protecting the rights, benefits, and well-being of New Jersey’s Firefighters, EMTs, Dispatchers, Fire Inspectors, Instructors, and HazMat Technicians, and will continue to advocate vigorously for their needs in Trenton and beyond.

‍The Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ), was established and chartered as a State Association by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) on October 29, 1929. It is a member of the AFL-CIO. The PFANJ represents nearly 3,500 Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians, Dispatchers, Fire Inspectors, Instructors, and HazMat Technicians though its over 60 locals. This includes over 3,000 of New Jersey’s approximately 6,000 professional firefighters. Its local affiliates represent first responders who work in dispatch centers, academies, airports, fire districts, suburban municipalities, and the state’s largest and busiest urban fire departments.

‍