New Brunswick, NJ — Rutgers faculty unions are calling on NJ-11 congressional candidate Joe Hathaway to address photographs showing him posing with Joseph Belnome, an individual who was present in Washington, D.C. during the events of January 6.
Rebecca Givan, President of Rutgers AAUP-AFT, released the following statement:
“January 6 marked one of the most horrendous moments for American democracy in recent memory. A violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power and overturn the results of a legitimate election. For that reason, it is deeply concerning to see a candidate for Congress photographed alongside someone who was part of the January 6th insurrection and associated with extremist groups.”
Heather Pierce, President of the Rutgers Adjunct Faculty Union, also released the following:
“New Jersey voters deserve clarity. Joe Hathaway should explain his relationship with Joseph Belnome and make clear whether he unequivocally condemns the violence and extremism tied to January 6. Anyone seeking to represent our communities in Congress should be willing to stand firmly against political violence and defend democratic institutions without hesitation. The public deserves a clear answer.”
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