NEWARK, NJ – The New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) is endorsing U.S. Representative Donald Payne, Jr., in the upcoming Democratic primary election. Union leaders pointed to Rep. Payne’s commitment to public safety and record of delivering for first responders and emergency officials in making the endorsement.

“The FMBA is proud to support Congressman Payne’s re-election campaign in the upcoming Democratic primary,” said Eddie Donnelly, President of the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association. “Congressman Payne has always been a strong ally for first responders and for labor unions, working for years on legislation that enables emergency service personnel to purchase innovative technologies that keep our first responders and the public safe. As a member of the Homeland Security Committee, the Congressman has shown an intricate understanding of the needs of emergency personnel and first responders and his commitment to public safety is paramount.”

As a member of the Homeland Security Committee and former Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery, Rep. Payne has worked tirelessly to ensure that first responders and communities in the 10th District are sufficiently equipped and prepared for emergencies and natural disasters. In his firm term as Congressman, Rep. Payne was instrumental in passing legislation establishing the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet)created a dedicated and secure nationwide broadband network ensuring first responders and emergency personnel have access to service and can effectively communicate during times of crisis. Rep. Payne has also authored the “First Responders Access to Innovative Technologies Act” that updates the federal grant process for purchasing new equipment and systems for first-responders. In 2020, Congressman Payne co-sponsored the “Campus Fire Safety Education Act” with Congressman Bill Pascrell and Senator Bob Menendez to provide grants through the Department of Education to increase fire awareness and create fire education and safety programs at institutes of higher education across the country.

“I am proud to receive the endorsement of the union representing so many of New Jersey’s bravest, and I thank FMBA President Eddie Donnelly and his team for their vote of confidence,” said Congressman Payne. “As a member of the Homeland Security committee, I will continue to fight for our first responders in Washington and work towards securing funding for the necessary staffing, training and equipment for the men and women that work so hard to keep the public safe.”

Congressman Payne has also been endorsed by the New Jersey Education Association, and his campaign will be releasing additional endorsements from labor organizations, elected officials and advocacy groups in the coming weeks.