(Chesilhurst, NJ) – Another validation of Governor Chris Christie’s bipartisan leadership over the last three years was on display today when Chesilhurst Mayor Michael Blunt became the third Democrat Mayor in New Jersey to formally endorse the Governor’s re-election in November. Blunt, who began his service on Borough Council in 2002 and elected Mayor in 2007, was also elected as a New Jersey Delegate to the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina last year. To date, eleven elected Democrats from around New Jersey have officially endorsed Governor Christie.

“As a long-time Democrat and proud Obama supporter, endorsing a Republican candidate is not something that comes naturally. But it’s an honor to stand here today with a Governor who has demonstrated real leadership by putting aside partisan politics to move New Jersey forward, particularly after Superstorm  Sandy,” said Blunt, who also sits on the Board of Directors for the National Conference of Black Mayors. “Chesilhurst residents have the same concerns as others across the state, from job creation to property taxes, and thanks to Governor Christie’s bipartisan approach New Jersey is seeing record job growth and a tax cap that will help families afford to stay in their homes. With that record, I’m happy to offer my support.”

Governor Christie hosted a town hall in Chesilhurst back in January of 2011. Last fall, the Camden County Borough voted for President Obama by an 82-16% margin.

“Both parties in Washington can follow the example being set in New Jersey to reach across party lines, compromise and get things done for taxpayers,” said Governor Christie at the Borough’s Town Hall.“I’ve appreciated Mayor Blunt’s advice and guidance over the last few years as we worked to develop key reforms like the two percent property tax cap, and I’m looking forward to working with him in the months ahead as our campaign builds support from voters of all stripes heading into November’s election.”

Governor Christie has not only earned the backing of nearly a dozen Democrat elected officials, he’s also received the endorsement of the 20,000-member Laborers International Union and the 1,300-member Port Authority Police Benevolent Association – all of which backed Democrat Jon Corzine in the 2009 gubernatorial campaign. The Latino Leadership Alliance of NJ PAC, the most prominent Hispanic organization in New Jersey, unanimously awarded its endorsement for the first time ever to Christie in February, who additionally is the first ever Republican to receive their backing.

Previous Democrat endorsements include Harrison Mayor Ray McDonough, Sea Bright Mayor Dina Long and eight Harrison council members. Yesterday, East Brunswick’s Democrat Mayor Dave Stahl switched his party registration and announced his candidacy for state Senate in the 18^th District represented by outgoing Sen. Barbara Buono.