LaMonica McIver, the Democratic Newark City Council President, won the seat left vacant by the late N.J. Rep. Donald Payne Jr. after defeating Republican small businessman Carmen Bucco in a special election in New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District. McIver will serve out the remainder of Payne’s term until January and will face a rematch with Bucco in the November general election for the full term. She emphasized standing on the legacy of giants like Payne and highlighted key issues such as reproductive health choices and economic benefits for hardworking Americans. Bucco congratulated McIver on her victory but expressed eagerness for the rematch in November.
McIver, a member of Newark’s city council since 2018, worked for Montclair Public Schools as a personnel director and plans to focus on affordability, infrastructure, abortion rights, and protecting democracy. On the other hand, Bucco, a small-business owner with a background in the foster system, prioritizes support for law enforcement and ending corruption. The 10th District, located in northern New Jersey, is heavily Democratic and majority Black, with Republicans significantly outnumbered. With the recent conviction of U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez on federal bribery charges and the challenge to the county party line political system, it has been a volatile year for Democrats in New Jersey.
The 10th Congressional District remains a Democratic stronghold with a historical legacy of supporting the party. McIver’s victory signifies a continuation of this trend, with her focus on key issues important to her constituents. The upcoming November general election rematch will determine the representative for the full term and will likely shape the future direction of the district. McIver’s win also highlights the importance of local and state elections in ensuring representation that reflects the values and needs of the community.
The November rematch between McIver and Bucco will be closely watched, with both candidates positioning themselves on key policy issues and priorities. McIver’s victory in the special election sets the stage for a competitive race in a predominantly Democratic district. The outcome of the general election will have broader implications for the region and will serve as a barometer of voter sentiment leading up to the 2022 midterm elections. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, both candidates will continue to engage with voters and make their respective cases for why they are the best choice to represent the 10th Congressional District.
In the wake of the special election, McIver’s victory resonates with supporters who see her as a continuation of the late Rep. Donald Payne Jr.’s legacy. She aims to honor his memory by championing the issues that were important to him and by advocating for the constituents of the 10th District. The path ahead for McIver includes navigating the challenges of governing and representing a diverse constituency while staying true to her campaign promises. As the spotlight remains on the upcoming general election, McIver’s leadership and vision for the district will be put to the test in delivering on her commitments to the residents of northern New Jersey.
