Progressive Announces Run For Congress Against Norcross In NJ's 1st District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: January 12, 2026

Lonnie Affrime Announces Campaign for Congress in New Jersey’s First District

South Jersey entrepreneur launches grassroots campaign focused on ending corruption and rebuilding an economy that works for working people

CAMDEN COUNTY, NJ — South Jersey entrepreneur and progressive Democrat Lonnie Affrime announced his campaign for Congress in New Jersey’s First Congressional District, challenging longtime incumbent Congressman Donald Norcross in the 2026 Democratic primary.

Affrime is running on a platform focused on fighting corruption, lowering the cost of living, and building an economy that works for ordinary Americans rather than political insiders and large corporations.

“America’s political and economic systems are working exactly as they were designed,” Affrime said. “They just weren’t designed for us. I’m running to build a system that works for everyone.” 

Affrime’s campaign focuses on addressing the economic pressures facing many South Jersey families, including rising housing and food costs, stagnant wages, and the growing influence of big money in politics. His campaign also emphasizes structural reforms to reduce the influence of wealthy donors and special interests in Washington.

Affrime said he decided to run after becoming increasingly frustrated with a political system dominated by entrenched interests and political machines.

“For too long, New Jersey politics has been controlled by insiders who answer to powerful donors and political bosses instead of the people they represent,” Affrime said. “Our district deserves independent leadership that will challenge corruption and fight for the people who actually live and work here.”

A lifelong South Jersey resident, Affrime has worked across business, nonprofit, and public policy fields. His campaign emphasizes grassroots organizing, volunteer engagement, and small-dollar donations as the foundation of its strategy.

The Democratic primary is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with mail voting beginning in May. 

Affrime’s campaign is encouraging supporters to volunteer, donate, and help build a people-powered movement throughout New Jersey’s First District.

“This campaign isn’t about one person,” Affrime said. “It’s about building a movement that finally gives working people a real voice in Washington.”

More information about the campaign can be found at: www.lonnieforjersey.com