Craig Cayetano is running for Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3 again in 2020

"I'm a lifelong Northern New Jersey resident, grew up in Bergenfield, but have resided in Hawthorne for over fifteen years now. I'm second generation Peruvian on my father's side and of Italian/German descent on my mother's. Both my mother and grandmother were hardworking waitresses so living paycheck to paycheck was our way of life. I had been a busboy for them from time to time. Then, I was hired to be a veterinary technician at sixteen and was self-taught. Even back then I was a very good listener. I had varied interests growing up: baseball, basketball, soccer, wrestling, band, debate but mainly science and the environment were my focus. I helped to form our high school Environmental Club. I was it’s president as well. I studied Biology, Political Science and Philosophy while attending community college before being thrust into the full-time sales workforce. I still am constantly studying one topic or another almost daily and am always learning.

I have always believed in and worked for fairness towards all political parties. Trying to always study all sides of the political spectrum and to develop a common sense or “real world” approach to issues. I have supported many Independent or Green Party candidates up and down the ballot in every election. After stepping away from politics, I re-engage during 2015 for the Sanders primary campaign and supported him until his concession. Since then, I have seen the control, influence and harm the two-party system has affected the electoral process. I respect those that still vote in every election but remain Independent or Unaffiliated. I understand why some have even decided not to vote. While volunteering on a few campaigns over the last few years I truly listen to their reasons and concerns. I honestly love conversing about the day-to-day issues that matter most to people. I strive to build the Green Party because it is focused on community, environment, labor and not beholden to any corporate interests or donors. I first started locally as a member, then Nationally as one of our state's National Delegates and now have entered my second year as a State Co-Chair. I have also started a mutual aid group Mutual Passaic County to help during the pandemic and a co-founder of Voter Choice NJ. I try to lead by example and have been a listener, activist, organizer and will be a strong advocate for the people here in Ward 3 and for all of Hawthorne."