Sprague said Barrett’s announcement wasn’t a surprise to her.

“Brian made it very clear, after my Republican endorsement, that if he did not get the Democratic support that he would most likely drop out of the race. That is a tough decision to make, but only one that he can make. Best of luck to him in whatever he decides.”

Corey said Garcia won them over with her campaign platform.

“Her message of transparency (and) good government is very important to us.”

Garcia said she will remain a member of the Republican Party and is circulating petitions now to run on that line against Sprague in the September primary.

“The race will make Essex County history because you’ll see two major political parties working at the grassroots level to promote good government. Certainly I would appreciate Mr. Barrett’s support; he knows how important this race is to the people who live in our county.”

McAlevey said he didn’t formally withdraw as a candidate, but he’s fine with the Democrats’ endorsement of Garcia.

“I’m out of it. I said if they didn’t pick me there would be no hard feelings. I just said, ‘Why are you going with Republicans when there are Democrats.’ I said it was up to them.”

He said he’ll now support Garcia.

“She’s the Democratic nominee. Of course I will support her. I don’t know that much about her record.”

He said he hopes to garner more information when he meets with Garcia.

Meanwhile, Sprague said her campaign is forging on.

“I plan to continue this race as the endorsed Republican candidate in the primary election. I am anticipating, and am ready for, a two-party race in November.”

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