NEW JERSEY — Assemblyman Mike Inganamort has been selected as one of 38 Republican lawmakers nationwide for the 2026 class of GOPAC’s Emerging Leaders program, a political training initiative designed to prepare rising state and local Republicans for leadership roles and higher office.
Inganamort, who represents Legislative District 24, is the only lawmaker from New Jersey chosen for the program this year, according to organizers. The district includes all of Sussex County and parts of Morris and Warren counties.
Now serving his second term in the New Jersey Assembly, Inganamort previously served as mayor of Chester Township and is currently the youngest Republican member of the state Legislature.
“I’m excited to join the 2026 Class of Emerging Leaders and compare the work we do in New Jersey to the experiences of legislators from other states,” said Inganamort. “While no state matches New Jersey’s tax burden, many are grappling with the consequences of excessive government spending. I’m looking forward to learning from colleagues nationwide and bringing back new ideas to help restore fiscal discipline and opportunity in our state.”
Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio nominated Inganamort for the program. During his time in the Legislature, Inganamort has served on the Assembly Select Committee on Ballot Design and has spoken frequently on issues related to voting procedures.
GOPAC Chairman David Avella said the program aims to prepare Republican officeholders for future leadership.
“Our 2026 Class of Emerging Leaders is the next installment in our mission to build a roster of Republicans who are focused on ideas to make the lives of their constituents easier, safer, and better,” said Avella. “Whether it is leading in their state legislative chamber or running for higher office in the future, we welcome being part of their development and success.”
In the Assembly, Inganamort serves on the Budget, Transportation and Environment committees. He is also a member of the Manufacturing Caucus and co-chair of the Angling and Hunting Conservation Caucus.
GOPAC was founded in 1978 by Delaware Gov. Pierre “Pete” S. du Pont to help develop Republican candidates for Congress and higher state offices.
