Assemblyman Michael J Inganamort of the State of New Jersey said on April 19 that, ‘Today’s LD24 is a wholly unique creation,’ in reference to the impact of redistricting cycles on legislative and congressional districts in New Jersey.
The topic matters as periodic redistricting can significantly alter district boundaries, affecting both representation and historical comparisons. Inganamort’s comments were made during a social media exchange about how longstanding district labels may not reflect current realities after reapportionment, according to an X thread.
Inganamort said, ‘I’m beginning to think we need to name our Districts like the Brits, and then come up with fresh names when there’s a new map. Rodney Frelinghuysen never represented this district. What we now call NJ11 didn’t exist prior to 2020. In some ways it resembles the district RF held, but it’s an entirely distinct area. People say I represent Steve Oroho’s district. Actually, I don’t. The district number is the same, yes. But SO didn’t represent Roxbury, and I don’t represent Blairstown.’ According to Inganamort in the same exchange, ‘Today’s LD24 is a wholly unique creation.’
New Jersey’s 24th Legislative District currently includes all of Sussex County along with specific municipalities in Morris and Warren counties such as Chester Borough, Chester Township, Mount Olive Township, Netcong, Roxbury and Washington Township in Morris plus Allamuchy Township and Independence Township in Warren. This configuration reflects adjustments made during the most recent redistricting cycle based on population data; Inganamort represents constituents across this reconfigured area that includes communities previously assigned differently according to NJ Spotlight News.
The New Jersey Apportionment Commission adopted updated legislative district maps in February 2022 following delays tied to the 2020 census data release. These maps divided the state into 40 districts with roughly equal population while attempting to preserve municipal boundaries and communities of interest where feasible. The process aims for fair representation for residents across New Jersey as required by state guidelines according to Ballotpedia.
Inganamort was sworn into the New Jersey General Assembly in January 2024 after winning election to represent the 24th District. He previously served as mayor of Chester and worked in communications and public policy roles before returning to northwestern New Jersey according to his official biography.
