Bhalla Reacts To Being Challenged By Hoboken Library Director For Assembly

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken Library Director Jennie Pu, who's been in the news for running a library designated as the state's first "Book Sanctuary," announced Wednesday that she would run with a Jersey City department director for state Assembly as a Democrat.

This means she and Buildings and Street Maintenance Director Crystal Fonseca will run in the June Democratc primary for two seats — at least one of which is also being sought by Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla.

Pu and Fonseca are running with the support of the Hudson County Democratic Organization, the "machine" that Bhalla has fought before. But his own organization helped him raise $75,000 at his recent kickoff fundraiser, his spokesperson said Friday.

Asked about the two new candidates, Rob Horowitz, who is Bhalla's campaign spokesperson, said "Mayor Bhalla welcomes Jenny Pu and Crystal Fonseca to the Assembly race. He looks forward to a spirited contest among all the candidates about whom has the track record, innovative ideas and true independence to best represent Hoboken and Jersey City in Trenton."

Who will he run with?

"Ravi Bhalla is running on his own record, merits and vision. But not foreclosing slating options, depending on what ends up coming out of the State Legislature," Horowitz said.

The 32rd District includes Hoboken and part of Jersey City.

Read prior reporting here.