Mahwah Man Will Not Run For Congress

Mahwah resident Jim McQueeny, who many knew for his work as News12 host and political commentator, will not be seeking a seat in Congress.

Last week, represntatives from the Bergen County Democrats announced that McQueeny was considering to run in the 5th Congressional District, and was set to make an official announcement to kick off his campaign Sunday, NorthJersey.com reported.

Saturday, McQueeny released a statement blaming business obligations for pulling his name out of the race. McQueeny is the chairman of Winning Strategies, apublic relations company based in Newark.

His camp released the following statement explaining his decision:

"It is with much regret and great sadness that I must withdraw my name from consideration for the Democratic nomination in the 5th Congressional District.   

I have always believed that service is the ultimate responsibility and I embraced the opportunity to represent my community in Washington.  However, the suddenness of the opportunity, with events propelled further by the enthusiastic response to it, just didn’t allow for the proper time for me and my business partners to transition the work of our company’s customers; locally, nationally and internationally.

Many of the projects had been started, or committed to, with the expectation of my personal, direct involvement.  Being a candidate for office would have precluded me from fulfilling those pledges and I can not in good conscience neglect my professional responsibilities."