By John Reitmeyer
U.S. Sen. Cory Booker came out to declare victory at 9:33 pm after an introduction from his mother, Carolyn, who said “It’s really a good evening for me.”
Booker, surrounded on stage by other family members, including his brother, Cary, said his election to a full six-year term was “earned by thousands across this state and I give my gratitude.”
He also praised Republican opponent Jeff Bell, saying he was “grateful” to have him as an opponent. Bell has yet to address members of the media gathered at the Teaneck Marriot at Glenpointe.
Booker then said there is much work to do in the Senate, citing a series of issues ranging from criminal justice policies to infrastructure investment.
He also pledged to work in a bipartisan manner, continuing a theme he stressed throughout the campaign as many expect the Senate to end up in the control of the GOP by the end of the night.
“I’m looking forward in politics to being someone who represents the best of New Jersey values, the best of our nation’s values,” Booker said.
He closed the roughly ten minute victory speech with a call for unity.
“We need to define ourselves, not by how well we tear each other down, but by how well we build up America,” Booker said.
