July 20, 2020
Rep. Chris Smith today welcomed the endorsement of the New Jersey Professional Firefighters Association (PFANJ) which represents over half of New Jersey’s approximately 6,000 professional firefighters. PFANJ members come from small fire districts as well as full-time 24-hour suburban and urban fire and rescue agencies across the state.
“Chris Smith has been a consistent and influential advocate for firefighters and other emergency responders and we are delighted to endorse him for reelection,” said PFANJ President Steve McConlogue. “Rep. Smith is a bipartisan leader who has worked hard to ensure that our first responders have the equipment, other federal support, and representation needed to ensure that fire departments and communities can work best to provide safety and protection for NJ citizens,” McConlogue said.
“Most recently, Chris helped secure federal funding to purchase essential personal protective equipment needed to protect our firefighters during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to working with him during this reelection and in the many years to come,” McConlogue added.
“The brave men and women of the PFANJ who step up to serve our communities and come to our aid in times of crises epitomize the valor and dedication of the American spirit,” Smith said. “We are all indebted to our firefighters and EMS professionals—and their families—who make untold sacrifices for our safety and protection. I thank them for their service and am honored to have their support,” he said.
Smith, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, has an extensive record of supporting and strongly advocating for federal programs that assist local entities in paying for fire personnel, equipment, and other support.
