Councilman-at-Large Bhalla To Run For State Assemblyman

Councilman-at-large Ravi Bhalla is running for state assemblyman in the 33rd District against incumbent Ruben Ramos Jr., according to a story on PolitickerNJ.

The story states: "Bhalla, an attorney, told PolitickerNJ.com that it's fluid situation right now but as it stands he will run alone against the Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO) team."

The HCDO team also includes State Senator Brian Stack, Hudson County Freeholder Anthony Romano and Sean Connors, who is running with Ramos. 

With Bhalla's candidacy in the mix, there will now be a primary election in June, which Alex Habib, Ramos' chief of staff, said they weren't expecting. 

But, Habib added that this means that Ramos will be "knocking on twice as many doors." Habib said that Bhalla's decision to run against the Hudson County Democratic Organization is a selfish move. 

"Why would he run against Ruben?" Habib said. "He really thinks he has a chance."

Bhalla confirmed he is filing petitions in a text message on Monday afternoon, but declined further comment. 

If elected, Bhalla—one of the mayor's allies on the city council—will have to step down as councilman-at-large.