StrictConstruct

After a one on one debate between the two remaining competitors for the Republican nomination in the New Jersey Senate race, the Gloucester Gountry GOP voted to endorse Murray Sabrin over Jonathan Pennacchio with a 86 to 58 vote. The win is Sabrin’s first, as Pennacchio had recieved the endorsement of Bergen, Hunterdon, Morris, and Union counties earlier in the race.

Despite the attempt by some party leaders to find a third candidate to fill the “liberal Republican” void left by Anne Estabrook, it appears that the race is beginning to consolidate behind the two current candidates. With Frank Lautenberg percieved as a fairly weak candidate, the Republicans have been in search of a strong candidate that would be able to put up a strong fight against him. By most accounts, the results of the debate heavilly influenced the endorsing process in Gloucester, and was a major factor in Sabrin’s success. The debate covered a wide range of issues, including the Cuban embargo, which Sabrin came out strongly against.

As was shown in his earlier debate with Anne Estabrook, Sabrin strongly stands by the Constitution and the principles within it. If the results of this county meeting is any indication, debates are a strong point of Sabrin and he is able to successfully contrast himself with the opposing candidates.

(Photo credit to stephenhanafin.)