District 26 Senate Candidate: Joe Pennacchio

With the Nov. 8 election fast approaching, Patch takes a look at the candidates for District 26 Senate, incumbent Republican Joe Pennacchio (Montville) and Democratic challenger Wasim Khan (Parsippany).

Patch asked each candidate to fill out the questionnaire below. A representative of Pennacchio sent us this bio. As of this article's publication, Independent candidate Joseph Scafa (Rockaway) had not responded to requests.

For Khan's responses, head here.

Joe Pennacchio (R-Montville)

Age: 56

Occupation/Background: Dentist

Previous elected or appointed positions: Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders (1998-2001); Freeholder Liaison to the Morris County Administration and Finance offices; deputy liaison to Morris County’s Department of Human Services; New Jersey General Assembly (2001-2008); New Jersey State Senator for District 26 (2008-Present); Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee; Senate Labor Committee; Member of New Jersey Economic Development Authority; Member of Montville Economic Development Council; Founding Member of Montville Education Foundation

Any other current elected or appointed positions: No

Other community associations: No

Town (and length) of residence: Montville

Most pressing issues for this candidate in a coming term, and what would be done to address them: The Senator has been on the forefront for transparency in government. His efforts would bring the most comprehensive, inclusive website at all levels of government to New Jersey. It will show taxpayers exactly how each and every dollar is being spent in a timely, user friendly, easy to use website, which will ultimately become a useful tool in cutting wasteful and questionable spending.

Fun Fact: Senator Pennacchio has dental offices in Mount Arlington and Parsippany.

Do you live in the district with your family? Senator Pennacchio lives in District 26 with his wife, Diane, and their two children.