New Jersey Senator Makes It Clear: ‘I Am Running,’ With A Twist

Breaking News Exclusive: Senator Vince Polistina Ends The Speculation

New Jersey Republican State Senator Vince Polistina made a definitive announcement on Friday morning, November 6, 2026, exclusively on my Hurley in the Morning radio program.

"I am running for reelection," Polistina declared.

The announcement comes just three days after a devastating election for Atlantic County Republicans, including the defeat of United States Congressman Jeff Van Drew.

Polistina's declaration provides an important measure of political certainty as Atlantic County Republicans confront the consequences of Tuesday's disastrous election results.

However, there is a fascinating twist to this breaking political development.

A Congressional Bombshell: Polistina for Congress?

United States Congressman Jeff Van Drew photo.

Polistina exclusively confirmed to me that individuals have already approached him about potentially seeking New Jersey's 2nd Congressional District seat in 2028.

The unexpected development follows Congressman Jeff Van Drew's defeat in the November 3, 2026 General Election to Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock.

Polistina made clear that he is not announcing a congressional candidacy. Rather, he acknowledged that there is a possibility — depending on Congressman Van Drew.

His willingness to consider that opportunity comes with one very significant condition. And that condition involves Van Drew himself.

The Van Drew Factor: One Condition Changes Everything

New Jersey Senate - Senator Vince Polistina photo.

Polistina told me that he would only consider running for Congress in 2028 if Jeff Van Drew decides against seeking a return to Washington.

If Van Drew wants to run again, Polistina will not challenge him for the congressional seat.

Polistina is declaring his intention to seek reelection to the New Jersey State Senate in 2027, unless a potential congressional opportunity in 2028.

Polistina will be running for one or the other, not both. Polistina’s position also demonstrates that he has no intention of standing in Van Drew's way should the congressman pursue a political comeback.

The ultimate decision regarding a possible Polistina congressional candidacy therefore rests, at least initially, with Van Drew's future intentions.

Polistina, From Engineering Success to The New Jersey Senate

Polistina brings considerable business and political experience to this developing story.

A lifelong Atlantic County resident, Polustina graduated from Absegami High School and earned a degree in bioenvironmental engineering from Rutgers University.

In 2003, he established Polistina & Associates, a full-service engineering firm that specializes in municipal infrastructure, water systems and wastewater management.

Polistina’s electoral — political career began in the New Jersey General Assembly in January 2008, where he served through 2011.

Polistina returned to the Legislature in 2021, winning election to the State Senate seat previously held by Chris Brown. He subsequently won reelection in 2023.

Polistina currently serves as a Deputy Republican Conference Leader in the New Jersey Senate.

Two Election Cycles, One Major Political Decision

The political landscape in Atlantic County has changed dramatically following Tuesday's election.

With Republicans suffering extraordinary losses, Polistina's decision to seek another Senate term establishes him as an important figure in the party's immediate future.

But the possibility of a 2028 congressional candidacy introduces an entirely different dimension.

For now, Polistina's message is unmistakable: He intends to run for reelection to the New Jersey Senate.

The congressional question remains conditional, with Jeff Van Drew's intentions serving as the deciding factor.

This is a developing story. To be continued.