Sen. Andy Kim Rallies Democrats in Hamilton Township Ahead of Election Day
At a packed Get Out the Vote rally, candidates call for turnout and pledge fiscal responsibility, unity and expanded community services.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP — With less than 10 days until Election Day, U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., visited the Hamilton Mall for a Get Out the Vote rally in support of Hamilton Township Committee candidates Thelma Witherspoon, Yvette Soto and Tracy Thompson.
Kim also stumped for gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and urged attendees to support Democratic candidates down the ballot by voting Column B.
“We have to give it everything we’ve got. We know what’s at stake,” Kim told a packed crowd, giving standing ovation at times, at Director’s Ink Creative Arts Center on the first floor of the mall. “We need you to help show people in New Jersey what’s at stake. We have an awesome responsibility in New Jersey.”
Kim said that when he returns to Washington, colleagues often ask what the political energy is like in New Jersey.
“We can very well shape what comes next, not just for New Jersey but for the entire country,” he said. The senator reminded voters that the country is watching. “We are the Iowa and New Hampshire of the midterm elections,” Kim said. “New Jersey is going to shape what comes next. The whole country is watching, so don’t screw it up.”
Mark Tyler
Before Kim arrived, Witherspoon, Soto and Thompson shared their platform. The all-woman slate says it is committed to fiscal responsibility, community unity and expanded services in New Jersey’s largest geographical municipality.
Witherspoon, seeking a second term, said her decision to run again stems from wanting to continue the progress made during her first three years in office.
“It has been my absolute honor and joy to serve on township committee,” she said.
Witherspoon said she wants to expand services for both youth and seniors, and highlighted support for redevelopment. She said she voted to secure funding to repair the Hamilton Township dam and to construct a modern concession stand at Liepe Field, replacing portable toilets that had been used for more than 16 years.
Mark Tyler
Soto, who is running for a full three-year term, emphasized strengthening the township’s small-business community and economic base. Soto has more than 25 years of experience in financial development and grant management — including raising millions for nonprofits. She previously served the American Red Cross of Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties, raising funds after the 9/11 attacks and during Hurricane Sandy.
“I am thankful to God for allowing me to be here because I admire these two women,” Soto said.
Thompson is running for the unexpired seat vacated by former Deputy Mayor Robert Laws, who recently became business administrator for the City of Pleasantville. She said she hopes to use her background in event promotion and community organizing to reestablish Hamilton Township as a hub of activity and inclusion.
“I am you,” Thompson said. “I am the mother that understands. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to listen to people say, ‘I can’t afford anything. I can’t live.’”
Thompson said voter turnout will be key.
“Let’s vote. Let’s call our neighbors. Let’s get our friends. We need to drive people to the polls,” she said.
If elected, Witherspoon, Soto and Thompson would form one of the most diverse governing teams in township history, including the first Latina committee member.
Other Democratic candidates also spoke. Joanne Famularo, a Pleasantville City Council member running for state Assembly, said she has knocked on more than 1,000 doors.
“We need to get every registered Democrat out to vote,” Famularo said. “When you don’t vote, you get what you don’t vote for.”
Sherri Parmenter, who is running for Atlantic County surrogate, said she wants to improve customer service.
“I want people to walk into the office feeling good and walk out feeling better,” she said.
Hamilton Township Democratic Club President Laury-Ann Diaz, who helped organize the rally, said she was pleased with the turnout and noted that this was the first Get Out the Vote rally held in the township in years.
“It’s important just to bring attention to this area,” Diaz said.
Atlantic County Democratic Committee Chairman Michael Suleiman said Kim helped energize the base. “Andy is so down to earth and so relatable,” Suleiman said. “He’s a breath of fresh air.”
Early voting continues through Sunday, Nov. 2. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.
Please enjoy our gallery from the event.
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