Pride Fund Endorsed Candidate Phil Murphy Wins Critical Governor's Race
Washington, D.C. November 7, 2017 --Pride Fund to End Gun Violence PAC — America’s only national LGBTQ political organization focused solely on gun violence prevention — congratulates its endorsed candidate for Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, on his victory tonight over Kim Guadango. Murphy ran as the Democratic gubernatorial nominee, and campaigned on a gun violence prevention platform, which stands in stark contrast to his opponent’s, which embraced the gun lobby’s agenda.
“We’re excited to congratulate Phil Murphy this evening in this critical election that sends a strong message to New Jerseyans and Americans across the country that voters are rejecting the gun lobby’s agenda at the ballot box,” said Jason Lindsay, Pride Fund Executive Director. “We’re proud to have endorsed Phil’s campaign so early and to have contributed to his win tonight. Murphy’s campaign highlighted New Jersey’s need for commonsense gun reform and that clearly resonated with the voters tonight,” said Lindsay.
“Ensuring that our society lives up to its ideals of tolerance and inclusion is central to a fairer, stronger New Jersey,” said Phil Murphy. “We can never tolerate bigotry and that means making sure that guns are kept out of the hands of those whose hate can lead them to extreme acts. I am proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Pride Fund in support of commonsense laws that will protect our communities and honor the memories of those lost to senseless gun violence,” said Murphy.
For too long, current Governor Chris Christie stood in the way of commonsense gun reform and vetoed legislation that would have made New Jersey communities safer. Murphy’s opponent, Kim Guadagno, was Chris Christie’s handpicked successor and would have continued his tradition of dangerous gun policy. As governor, Phil Murphy will champion LGBTQ equality and will advocate for a New Jersey that is more inclusive and safe for all, regardless of their race, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Following the Pulse massacre and most recent mass shootings in Las Vegas and Texas, we are encouraged by Murphy’s commitment to commonsense gun reforms and to continuing the march toward equality for the LGBTQ community. Pride Fund looks forward to working with Murphy and the people of New Jersey as we reclaim our communities from the threat of gun violence.