NJ7 - Linda Stender for Congress

Statement

My name is Linda Stender, and I’m running for Congress in the 7th Congressional District against Mike Ferguson. I wanted to introduce myself to BlueJersey readers and let you know why I’m running.

I am currently in my third term as the Assemblywoman for the 22nd Legislative District, which includes parts of Union, Middlesex and Somerset Counties. I served as Union County Freeholder from 1994-2002, Mayor of Fanwood from 1992-1995 and Councilwoman in Fanwood from 1988-1990. I have lived in Fanwood for 29 years, where my husband Richard and I have raised our three children.

I think many will agree that we desperately need a change in Washington, and that’s why I’m running this year. We’re embroiled in a war in Iraq with no plan and no end in sight. Congress has succumbed to a culture of corruption where too many of our elected representatives spend more time on lobbyist-funded golf outings that they do working on the people’s business. The Republicans in Washington are pushing to privatize Social Security. The new Medicare part D “plan” is doing nothing but confusing seniors and giving millions to the drug companies. And every step of the way, Mike Ferguson has remained a loyal rubber stamp to the Republican leadership – willing to do their bidding even when it directly conflicts with what his constituents need. Our nation is headed in the wrong direction, and Mike Ferguson continues to support the failed policies of the Bush administration.

As the only woman candidate running for Congress in New Jersey this year, I have a unique opportunity to talk about the issues most important to women, none of which is more important to me than reproductive freedom. In my career I have been a consistent supporter for choice because I trust women to make the right decisions. Mike Ferguson’s radical anti-choice position is clear. He supports a complete ban on abortions except to save the life of the mother, even in cases of rape or incest. He continues to support a constitutional amendment to ban abortion. He opposes the life-saving promise of stem-cell research. He even voted to allow the government to intrude on the private medical decisions of families in the Terri Schiavo case.

It’s time for a new voice in Washington – a voice that will challenge the leadership and the President, ask the tough questions, shout for necessary reforms, fight for reproductive freedom, protect our nation against terrorism and work to return the right priorities to Congress.

Every day, I am putting my heart and soul into this race. In the coming months, I will continue to make the case for a new voice in Washington, by letting the voters know what I intend to do when I get to Congress. Come November, I believe the voters will vote for me, and vote to change the direction of our nation.

During the campaign, I ask for your input – your ideas, your opinions and your hopes for America. You can email me at Linda@lindastenderforcongress.com. My website, www.lindastenderforcongress.com, will be up very soon, and will include a blog for people to post their comments and chat about the campaign.

I am excited about the campaign, and the opportunity to put forward my vision for America’s future. I ask for your support.

Sincerely,

Linda Stender

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