Two big decisions have changed the political scene in Hudson County, raising questions about what comes next for the June primary.
Assemblyman Julio Marenco and Assemblyman John Allen, both important figures in New Jersey politics, have announced they won’t run for re-election.
This has shifted plans for Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who had both of them on his team for the election.
Now, with districts like LD-33 left open, new candidates will likely step in, creating both challenges and opportunities.
So, why did Marenco and Allen step aside now?
And how will their decisions affect the political landscape as other leaders make their moves?
Here’s what’s happening and why it matters.
- Assemblyman Julio Marenco (D-33) decided to stop running for re-election so he could fully focus on his job as the director of the North Bergen Housing Authority.
- His decision changes the race in LD-33, leaving candidates like Senator Brian Stack, Larry Wainstein, and Gabe Rodriguez as main contenders.
- Marenco may return to politics in the future and has strong support from North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco and other local leaders for his work.
Marenco Steps Down to Focus on North Bergen Housing Authority
Assemblyman Julio Marenco, a Democrat representing New Jersey’s 33rd Legislative District, has announced he will not run for re-election in the upcoming June 10th primary.
This decision comes as Marenco chooses to focus fully on his role as executive director of the North Bergen Housing Authority, a position he took on in September.
Marenco, known for his dedication to public service, has always worked closely with his community.
His career began with serving the nation in the U.S. Navy, where he worked on nuclear submarines.
Later, he became a trusted figure in local government, including serving as the president of the North Bergen Board of Education and a township commissioner.
In 2023, he was elected to the state Assembly, working with state Senator Brian Stack and Assemblyman Gabe Rodriguez, all of whom were backed by the Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO).
In his announcement, Marenco said he believed stepping down was the best decision for the people he serves so he can dedicate himself fully to his work at the Housing Authority.
While he won’t be running for office this year, he hinted at a possible return to politics in the future.
His announcement has already drawn support from local leaders who admire his commitment to his community.
Fulop’s Slate Adjusts as Marenco and Allen Exit
Marenco’s withdrawal from the race isn’t the only change in Hudson County politics.
His decision follows Assemblyman John Allen (D-32), who also recently stepped away from running again.
Both were initially part of Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop’s slate, which aims to back strong candidates in this year’s elections.
While Marenco and Allen have left the team, Fulop’s slate still includes Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato (D-31) and Bayonne 2nd Ward Councilwoman Jackie Weimmer.
Both women remain part of the campaign, alongside Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez (D-32).
This team is central to Fulop’s plans as he prepares for a potential run for governor.
North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco has voiced his support for Marenco’s decision, praising his leadership.
Sacco highlighted Marenco’s excellent work at the North Bergen Housing Authority, especially during challenging times.
Sacco also shared his confidence in Marenco’s potential to return to elected office someday, describing him as an important leader for the community.
What’s Next for LD-33 and Its Candidates?
Marenco’s exit leaves an open question about who will take his place in the race for LD-33.
For now, state Senator Brian Stack, who is also the mayor of Union City, remains a central figure in the district.
Stack continues to enjoy the strong backing of the HCDO, which has also endorsed Assemblyman Gabe Rodriguez and Larry Wainstein.
Wainstein, who has run against Sacco for mayor three times, is a divisive figure in the region’s politics, and his inclusion in the race makes LD-33 more competitive.
While Wainstein and Rodriguez are expected to face opposition, the other candidates running against them have not yet been announced.
Earlier in the year, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop had suggested adding Hector Oseguera, a 2020 congressional candidate, to the LD-33 slate.
Fulop described Oseguera as a “phenomenal” candidate, raising expectations about his potential entry into the race.
However, as of now, no formal announcements have been made regarding his candidacy.
