(Courtesy of Bergen 37) Nearly 300 energized supporters gathered at RAIN on Water in Teaneck on Thursday night for the official kickoff celebration of the “Together for Bergen 37” campaign, led by State Assembly candidates Rosemary Hernandez Carroll and Yitz Stern. The evening was a celebration of community, shared values, and a powerful momentum shift ahead of the June 10 primary election.
The program began with remarks from elected officials across District 37, including Teaneck Mayor Mark Schwartz, who highlighted critical voter turnout data. “I won Teaneck with over 8,000 votes, the same number the current incumbents received across 10 towns,” Schwartz noted. “Teaneck, Hackensack and Englewood make up 40% of this district, but didn’t show up in those numbers. That changes this year.”
Former Assemblyman Ken Zisa, who served four terms representing District 37, spoke of the candidates’ readiness and impact: “Rosemary and Yitz are not just formidable— they’re necessary. They are focused on what matters to the people, not themselves.”
Other speakers included Bogota Councilwoman Diana Vergara, who praised the candidates as unifiers of Bergen’s diverse communities: “This campaign brings together the strength of Jewish and Latino voices. Rosemary and Yitz represent all of us.” Bogota BOE President Frank Miranda added: “Small towns like ours are often overlooked. In all my years of serving the Bogota community, I have yet to meet or even speak with our current assembly representatives. Electing Yitz and Rosemary ensures our voices are finally heard in Trenton.”
Gerard Carroll Jr. delivered an emotional and energizing introduction for his wife, Rosemary Hernandez Carroll, sharing how she’s spent years advocating for educational equity, entrepreneurship and homeownership. “She knows that real leadership means listening, taking action, and delivering results—not just promises,” he said. “Rosemary believes government should work for everyone, not just a select few. She’s the kind of leader who will fight for working families, small businesses, and every voice in this district.”
Rosemary Hernandez Carroll, a Bergen County native, small business owner and passionate community voice, echoed that message from the podium. “This campaign isn’t just about politics—it’s about people,” she said. “It’s about our families, our children, and the future we want to build together. We know how hard it is to reach the dream of homeownership. We know how important quality education is for our children. I believe in listening deeply, connecting genuinely, and bringing fresh ideas to Trenton.” she said. “We will fight for better schools, safer streets, and a government that truly works for the people.”
Rabbi Daniel Fridman offered a heartfelt introduction before Yitz Stern took the stage, speaking about Stern’s long-standing dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to the community. “Yitz is a man of integrity, a leader who has always put the needs of others first,” Rabbi Fridman said. “He understands the challenges facing our families, and he’s ready to be a strong voice for us in Trenton.”
Yitz Stern, a longtime Teaneck resident and former deputy mayor, spoke passionately about his vision for the district. “We hear you clearly: We know homeownership feels unattainable for too many. We know taxes burden our working families. We know our commuters deserve better, more reliable transit options. And we recognize the urgent need for supporting and investing in our schools and educators. Rosemary and I are ready to bring your voice to the state level, advocating tirelessly for the resources and policies that will improve the lives of everyone here in Bergen County.”
The energy in the room was palpable, with supporters from across the district expressing excitement about the campaign. Many attendees noted that Stern and Hernandez Carroll’s deep-rooted involvement in local issues makes them uniquely qualified to represent the district.
“They truly understand our needs,” said Paola Disla of Hackensack. “They’re not politicians—they’re part of this community.”
Ridgefield Park resident Fabrice Sylvain summed it up: “Rose and Yitz are truly the community’s candidates. They show up, they listen, and they lead with heart.”
With the “Together for Bergen 37” campaign now officially underway, Rosemary Hernandez Carroll and Yitz Stern are hitting the ground running, engaging voters and calling for unity across all of District 37. If Thursday night’s turnout was any indication, their campaign is poised to make a significant impact in the race for Assembly.
For more information or to support the campaign, visit TogetherForBergen37.com.
