For Immediate Release
WILLIAM PAYNE JOINS SHAVAR JEFFRIES FOR MAYOR AS CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIRMAN
Monday, February 24, 2014 - Newark, NJ – The mayoral campaign for former Assistant Attorney General Shavar Jeffries today announced that Essex County deputy chief of staff and former New Jersey Assemblyman William D. Payne endorsed Shavar Jeffries for mayor of Newark and has agreed to serve as campaign co-chairperson.
"Shavar Jeffries is a man of extraordinary integrity who is a dedicated and qualified public servant," said Payne. "He has a genuine commitment to serve the city of Newark and our people."
Payne, the uncle of Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr., is a lifelong Newarker, distinguished community leader and public official. In endorsing Shavar, Payne cited Jeffries' unique qualifications, background, skills and experience as the premiere reasons for his support.
"Shavar Jeffries is a prime example of the best of what Newark can produce. His upbringing as a young man rising above difficult circumstances, vast experience as a civil rights attorney, defender of American democracy, and his work for the nation's leading human and civil rights law firm – the NAACP Legal Defense Fund – make him the most uniquely qualified at this critical point. He is the best person to lead our city forward to fulfill our great potential," stated Payne.
Payne also noted that Jeffries' successful record in helping to reduce crime throughout the state while working as an assistant attorney general will help Newark in facing its challenges concerning public safety.
"Newark is at a pivotal point as we move into our future," said Payne. "Crime is the number one issue on the minds of residents. Newarkers must once again feel safe and secure in order to create an environment where businesses and other investors will be encouraged to invest and expand.
"Shavar is the leader Newark needs now. He has a comprehensive plan to address the current state of fear on our streets and in our neighborhoods. It is clear that Shavar's combination of experience, bold and innovative ideas, proven solutions and commitment are required for our next mayor.
"I am completely committed to working to ensure that Shavar Jeffries will be the next leader of the city of Newark," stated Payne.
Jeffries said he is grateful for the support of Mr. Payne and is honored to be endorsed by someone as well-respected and with such a deep-rooted connection to Newark.
"I am honored and humbled to accept the endorsement of William Payne. He is highly regarded and respected by countless people throughout the city and the state. His lifelong connection, contribution and service to our neighborhoods as a public servant, and community and organizational leader, are matched by few. I am grateful for and look forward to the wisdom of his advice and counsel as our co-chairman, experience as a gifted representative for our city, and advocate for Newark as Team Jeffries works to earn the confidence and votes of our neighbors in this election to move our great city forward," said Jeffries.
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Contact:
Amin Nathari - 973.592.8199