RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — Republican congressional candidate Joe Hathaway on Thursday challenged all 12 Democratic contenders in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District special election to participate in a single, public “12-on-1” debate, arguing voters deserve greater clarity ahead of the upcoming primaries.
The Democratic primary field is competing for the party’s nomination ahead of the Feb. 5 special primaries and the April 16 special election. Hathaway said the race has reached a point where direct, public discussion is necessary.
“I’m used to taking on double and triple teams in the football trenches, and I’m ready to do the same against my opponents,” Hathaway said. “Voters don’t need more political noise, they deserve answers. While the Democrats hold chaotic conventions and begin pointing fingers at each other, I’m offering something different: calm, commonsense leadership, with real solutions for North Jersey families.”
Hathaway, who launched his campaign in October, has cast himself as a “workhorse” alternative he says can appeal to Democrats, independents and Republicans seeking stability in the district.
He said a 12-on-1 debate would give voters a chance to compare candidates directly on issues such as affordability, his proposal to eliminate taxes for first-time homebuyers, capping student loan interest rates, strengthening national security and restoring fiscal discipline.
“If my opponents want to talk about their vision for bigger government, higher taxes, and untested plans, let’s do it,” Hathaway said. “One room, live on air, so voters can decide for themselves. I’ll be there.”
Hathaway serves as mayor of Randolph, where he was appointed to the township council in 2022. He lives in Randolph with his wife, Whitney, and their three children.
