Jonathan Gomez-Noriega, once an aide to Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, found himself at the center of a political storm this week. His firing came after it was revealed that he had donated money to his sister, Valentina Gomez, a Republican candidate known for her aggressive and derogatory stance against LGBTQ+ people. Valentina’s campaign, marked by hateful rhetoric, starkly contrasts the inclusive values Gomez-Noriega was expected to uphold as part of the mayor’s team and the city’s LGBTQ+ Task Force.
Mayor Fulop, a staunch defender of LGBTQ+ rights, was unequivocal in his stance. “If it’s not clear where you stand, then you’re not with me. You’re with her, and you can’t work with me,” he told Gomez-Noriega in a recorded conversation. This firm position resonated with the LGBTQ+ community in Jersey City, reinforcing Fulop’s commitment to inclusivity. Kim Wallace-Scalcione, Fulop’s press secretary, emphasized the mayor’s zero-tolerance policy for bigotry, reflecting his long-standing dedication to defending the LGBTQ+ community.
The fallout was swift. On Monday, the Hudson Pride Center announced a mass resignation of its staff from the city’s LGBTQ+ Task Force. Elizabeth Schedl, the executive director, condemned Gomez-Noriega’s support for his sister’s campaign, calling it “unacceptable and contrary to the values of inclusivity and respect.” Schedl’s strong statement underscored the community’s disappointment and reinforced the need for unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Gomez-Noriega attempted to justify his actions, stating that political differences shouldn’t destroy families. “I choose respect, peace, and the chance to embrace my loved ones, putting family above politics and any appointed position,” he said. However, his resignation and subsequent firing highlighted the challenging balance between personal loyalty and public responsibility.
Valentina Gomez, undeterred, took to social media to lash out at Mayor Fulop, accusing him of making her brother choose between his family and his job. In a video, she played the recording of Fulop’s ultimatum to Gomez-Noriega. Fulop responded by reiterating his commitment to the city’s values and his firm stance against bigotry, further solidifying his position as a defender of the LGBTQ+ community.
