HACKENSACK, NJ – Former Bogota mayor and longtime conservative activist Steve Lonegan announced Thursday that he is running for chairman of the New Jersey Republican Party.
Lonegan said he is entering the race with a goal of reshaping party leadership and building a more competitive statewide GOP organization.
His announcement outlined a platform focused on party infrastructure, conservative principles, and efforts aimed at energizing Republican voters.
Lonegan has held prominent roles in state and national politics, including serving as State Director of Americans for Prosperity and as a senior spokesman during Senator Ted Cruz’s 2016 presidential campaign.
He said his bid is intended to restore what he described as “authentic Republican values” ahead of future elections.
Candidate outlines core commitments
Lonegan’s campaign highlighted three areas he said the party must address to regain statewide influence.
Those commitments include rebuilding organizational structure, promoting conservative policy positions, and expanding the GOP’s voter coalition across New Jersey.
Lonegan emphasized his previous experience in tax policy and fiscal advocacy, citing his efforts in local government and within national political movements.
He also referenced his past work on campaigns supporting conservative platforms, including those aligned with former President Donald Trump.
Focus on party direction
In his announcement, Lonegan said the state GOP must move away from what he described as a passive political posture.
He argued that party leadership needs to take a more assertive approach to issues affecting New Jersey residents, including affordability and regulatory policy.
Lonegan stated he is seeking to provide the strategic direction he believes the organization has lacked in recent election cycles.
The New Jersey Republican State Committee will select its next chairman later this year.
Key Points
- Steve Lonegan announced his candidacy for chairman of the New Jersey Republican Party.
- His platform focuses on party infrastructure, conservative principles, and voter engagement.
- The election for NJGOP chairman is scheduled to take place later this year.