Throws Support to Shavar Jeffries and Announces He Is Running for Reelection for a Third Term in the North Ward

NEWARK, NJ – Feb. 12, 2014 – Councilman Anibal Ramos announced today that he is withdrawing from the Newark mayoral race and instead will run for reelection for a third term to the City Council in the North Ward.

“This is the most difficult decision that I've had to make in my political career because serving all residents as mayor of this great city where I was born and raised has always been my dream,” Ramos said.

“However, after much reflection and soul searching, I've come to the conclusion that withdrawing is what’s best to move Newark in a new direction.”

Ramos thanked his many supporters and volunteers who believed in his campaign and worked so hard over these past few months.

“This election was never about me,” Ramos said. “It was about the residents of Newark. Running for mayor has been a great privilege. Over the last few months, I had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people who care about the city.” 

Ramos said he is enthusiastically supporting Jeffries for mayor because he will provide the leadership the city needs. 

“Newark is at a crossroads right now,” Ramos said. “We have a choice of either going backwards, or stepping into the future boldly. Newark needs a leader who solves problems not someone who throws bricks. Newark needs a unifier, not a divider. Newark needs a chief executive officer, not a protester-in-chief. Newark needs a leader who is going to tell you what they are for, not just what they are against.”

“I believe that Shavar Jeffries will be that mayor,” Ramos said. “Shavar Jeffries will provide the leadership we need to move Newark in a new direction.”

Jeffries said he is grateful for Ramos' support and praised the councilman for running a campaign that focused on ideas for improving Newark. 

“Councilman Ramos ran an honorable and dignified campaign, focused on substantive issues that were important to Newark residents,” said Jeffries. “I often found that we were on the same side of many issues, from education to public safety to economic development. Councilman Ramos is truly one of the most accomplished public servants of our time. He is highly regarded and respected by voters throughout the city. I am both honored and excited to work with him and look forward to his advice and counsel as we move forward to collectively serve our great city.”

Ramos said he plans to run a vigorous re-election campaign for his seat in the North Ward.

“I am proud of my record in the last eight years as a councilman and all that we have been able to accomplish in the North Ward,” Ramos said. “But there is more work that needs to be done. I ask voters to give me another term in office so I can continue the work that we began eight years ago.”

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