Green Party Plans Protest Over Exclusion From 2nd District Debate

GALLOWAY, NJ — Before Jeff Van Drew and Joe Salerno are debating at Stockton University's Hughes Center Thursday night, outside, a peaceful protest will be underway.

The William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University and The Press of Atlantic City are co-sponsoring the Oct. 24 debate between Republican incumbent Van Drew and Democratic challenger Salerno from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

However, Green Party candidate Tom Cannavo says he was excluded from the debate, despite being a legitimate candidate - and says he was not given an explanation as to why.

Because of this, prior to the debate, Cannavo is planning a peaceful protest outside of the Hughes Center to urge fair inclusion.

"This kind of exclusion is not only a disservice to the voters of New Jersey but an affront to democracy," said Cannavo. "The Green Party has faced this undemocratic silencing for too long. We must stand up for democracy and political speech."

Cannavo and supporters will gather near the campus entrance on Vera King Ferris Drive from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. with signs, a potential rally, and efforts to make participants and organizers aware of the demand for fair inclusion.

"We want those responsible to understand that exclusion of a valid candidate is unacceptable. This protest is not just about me, but about ensuring that all voices are heard in our democracy," Cannavo said.