Mohamed T. Khairullah, mayor of Prospect Park and the longest-serving Muslim mayor in New Jersey, announced his candidacy Thursday for the 9th Congressional District, challenging incumbent Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr.
Distinguished for his long tenure in public service and support for liberal policies such as affordable housing and green initiatives, Khairullah is focused on developing community-wide peace and trust in his Congressional campaign, according to BNN Breaking.
“Now more than ever, our nation requires leaders who genuinely listen to the diverse voices of their constituents; leaders who are dedicated to building bridges and building a better future,” said Khairullah in a statement, NorthJersey.com reported. “I firmly believe that by working together and engaging with communities at the grassroots level, we can create meaningful change.”
The democratic primary on June 4 will decide who will serve as the representative for the 9th Congressional District. The primary, the New Jersey Globe reported, will “undoubtedly focus on the war in Israel and Gaza.”
Khairullah’s challenger, Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., has faced many instances of criticism from the Muslim community in New Jersey over his refusal to support a crease-fire and his alleged disinterest over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, according to the New Jersey Globe.
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Pascrell would be the oldest member of the House of Representatives and the second-oldest person in Congress if reelected, NorthJersey.com reported.
“Congressman Pascrell is eager to run for reelection against any challenger on his broad record of supporting the American economy, defending women’s health freedom, and protecting American democracy,” said Ben Rich, Pascrell’s campaign spokesman, NorthJersey.com reported. “He has always had a good relationship with the mayor, including being the first in line to demand an explanation from the Secret Service when the mayor was banned entry to the White House.”
Last May, BNN Breaking reported, Khairullah made national media attention when he was abruptly disinvited from the White House Eid al-Fitr celebration due to the Secret Service denying security clearance, despite not being on the federal terrorism watchlist.
In response to these incidents, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which included Khairullah, filed a lawsuit on the basis of alleged violations of rights to due process and equal protection, according to BNN Breaking.
“My campaign is dedicated to promoting peace, rebuilding trust with the community, and championing the values of unity and progress,” said Khairullah to NorthJersey.com. “It’s time to move forward.”
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