It’s a little bit surreal to write this, but as you drive around Teaneck, you may have seen my name on lawn signs. I am officially running for political office, and although it’s something new to me, it’s a very exciting opportunity and something I have wanted to do for a long time.

As a member of Teaneck’s Orthodox community, I have always made an effort to demonstrate to our town how sincere, collaborative and committed we are to the betterment of the town for all its residents. I have been actively engaged in grassroots political action and involved in interfaith and cross-cultural outreach programs. I am also a mother of three, and while combining work and family does not exactly leave me awash in free time, I have made Teaneck politics and community relations work a priority for a long time.

Now, I am excited to become even more civically involved by running for the Teaneck Democratic Municipal Committee (TDMC) in my voting district. The TDMC is the official local committee for the Democratic Party, and it has two representatives in each of Teaneck’s 23 voting districts. The TDMC is responsible for:

Voting at the Democratic Committee of Bergen County nominating convention to select which candidates receive the endorsement of the County Democratic Party in upcoming primary elections.

Working to elect Democratic candidates that represent our values at the county, state and federal levels.

Driving voter turnout in elections with members focusing mainly within their own voting districts.

Serving as the point of connection between (a) the County and Teaneck’s Democratic Party and (b) the Democratic residents of each district, representing constituents’ concerns at local and statewide forums.

Serving on TDMC subcommittees that focus on such aspects as member recruitment, voter education, bylaws and relevant local topics of interest (such as train safety).

Voting in a primary election is crucial because it determines the candidates who will represent each party in the general election at local, county, state and federal levels. It is important for local Democrats to have a voice in these choices. Primary elections tend to be dominated by voters on the extremes, and as more far-left candidates win primaries, the needs of the moderate majority of Democratic voters are not met. This trend can be seen in Congress with the unfortunate expansion of the “Squad” from four to nine members—and growing.

When more moderate and diverse voters participate in the primaries, they can help ensure that the chosen candidates are representative of the party as a whole, increasing the chances of nominating candidates who can appeal to a wider range of voters in the general election. This not only strengthens the democratic process but also promotes more balanced and effective governance. Because Teaneck is the second most populous township in the most populous New Jersey county, our influence carries significant weight. We need to support candidates who will represent the ideals of all Democrats in Teaneck and beyond. That support starts with a vote, and in this primary election, that must include voting for your local Teaneck Democratic Municipal Committee members.

If I am successful in my bid to win a seat on the TDMC, I will do my best to represent Teaneck’s Orthodox community in a respectful, collaborative way, and to make sure our community’s values are heard on this important committee. Working with a diverse group of people is a skill set I’ve been able to develop over the years, as well as something I find personally fulfilling. I encourage everyone to try something new and grow in their civic engagement, even if you don’t plan to run for office.

This primary election is critical, and not just because I am running! You have three ways to vote: You can Vote by Mail (if you’ve signed up), vote early between May 29 and June 2 at the Rodda Center in Teaneck (or at other early voting centers across Bergen County), or vote on primary election day on June 4 at your usual polling place.

Your vote is your voice!

Jennifer Montag has been a fashion executive, co-leader of Teaneck Women Together, and a substitute teacher. She has lived in Teaneck for 20 years with her husband, David, and three children, where they are members of Congregation Netivot Shalom.