Millville, NJ – A former U.S. foreign service officer ousted after the USAID shutdown is officially running for Congress in New Jersey—and now he has the support of a powerful growing D.C. based political action committee.
Bayly Winder, a former U.S. State Department and USAID official, has secured the endorsement of the Alliance 4 American Leadership (A4AL) in his bid for the Democratic nomination in New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District. Winder is seeking to unseat Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a Republican incumbent who previously switched parties in 2019.
Winder launched his campaign on June 23, shortly after being impacted by the abrupt USAID closure, and has positioned his run around restoring foreign aid programs and delivering for South Jersey’s working families. On Monday, A4AL announced their endorsement, calling Winder a “champion of national security and American leadership.”
Winder received the State Department’s Meritorious Honor Award and previously worked on foreign policy under both President Obama and President Trump. His record includes efforts in international development, national security collaboration with the FBI, and diplomatic service across the Middle East and Africa.
The A4AL endorsement places Winder among a small slate of candidates the PAC has backed since its formation in the wake of the USAID shutdown. The group, with over 600 volunteers across 46 states, is ramping up its ground operations ahead of 2026 and plans to support Winder through digital outreach and volunteer canvassing.
Winder argues that dismantling foreign aid undermines both American interests and local economies. “It’s hurting American farmers and small businesses across New Jersey,” he said in an earlier interview, warning that the vacuum left behind benefits geopolitical competitors like China.
The Alliance plans to host a virtual event with Winder on September 18 from 6 to 7 p.m. Eastern Time to rally supporters behind his platform.
Winder joins a growing list of former USAID officials entering politics since the agency’s shutdown. Megan O’Rourke, a Democratic candidate in New Jersey’s 7th District, also recently received A4AL’s endorsement.
Winder is expected to make foreign aid reform, national security, and economic equity for South Jersey residents the centerpieces of his campaign platform.
