By Matt Rooney
LD26 Assemblyman Brian Bergen isn’t interested in succeeding retiring State Senator Joe Pennacchio. He’s thinking bigger.
Following Assemblyman Jay Webber’s announcement that he intends to seek Pennacchio’s Senate seat in 2027, Bergen issued a statement Tuesday ruling out a Senate campaign of his own.
“I am not running for State Senate,” Bergen declared. “I don’t want to be in the Senate. I love the Assembly.”
Bergen praised Pennacchio’s nearly 27 years of legislative service and said his immediate focus is winning reelection in 2027, particularly after last week’s Democratic wave underscored the challenges facing New Jersey Republicans.
The bigger news? Bergen is openly eyeing the governor’s mansion.
“I will more than likely be running for governor in 2029,” Bergen said, arguing that his ultimate objective is to address the affordability crisis driving working families out of New Jersey.
“I’m not interested in trading the chamber I’m in for one with more marble,” he added. “I’m interested in changing New Jersey, and right now I can best do that in the Assembly.”
For now, Bergen says his search for a new Assembly running mate is officially underway.
