Marty Small, the incumbent mayor of Atlantic City, has received a significant boost in his re-election campaign, securing the endorsements of two prominent firefighter unions just days ahead of the upcoming Democratic primary. On June 4, 2025, both the Atlantic City Professional Firefighters Local 8 and the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) announced their support for Small, citing his efforts to improve public safety and labor conditions in the city.
The endorsement is seen as a key moment in Small’s bid for re-election, especially as he faces a primary challenge from Bob McDevitt, the former president of Unite HERE Local 54. The backing of these major public safety unions provides Small with a strong political advantage, demonstrating that his leadership has resonated with those who are directly involved in maintaining the city’s safety.
Key Achievements Recognized by Firefighter Unions
Both firefighter unions praised Small for his work in improving the working conditions of first responders and restoring critical services that were affected by the state’s previous oversight of Atlantic City. The FMBA and Atlantic City Professional Firefighters Local 8 pointed to several key accomplishments during Small’s tenure, including:
- Restoring Civil Service Protections: Small’s leadership has been credited with restoring civil service protections for firefighters, ensuring job security and fair treatment for public safety workers.
- Improving Collective Bargaining Rights: The unions noted that Small had made significant strides in enhancing the collective bargaining rights of firefighters, securing better contracts and working conditions.
- Upgrading Fire Equipment and Facilities: Both unions highlighted Small’s efforts to invest in modern fire equipment and renovate firehouses, significantly improving the city’s ability to respond to emergencies.
- Enhanced Staffing Levels: The improvements in staffing levels and operational conditions were also a central point of praise, ensuring that firefighters are better supported as they serve Atlantic City residents.
“Under Mayor Small’s leadership, we’ve seen improvements in our department that have directly impacted the safety of our citizens and the well-being of our firefighters,” said Matt Harkins, president of Atlantic City Professional Firefighters Local 8.
PBA Also Endorses Small
This endorsement comes after the Atlantic City Police Benevolent Association (PBA) threw its support behind Small in May 2025, despite his ongoing legal challenges. The police union has similarly praised Small for his commitment to public safety and effective leadership in maintaining strong community relations.
While Small’s legal issues, including an ongoing indictment, have raised questions among some political opponents, the PBA and firefighter unions have made it clear that they believe his leadership on public safety matters outweighs these challenges.
“The mayor has been a staunch supporter of first responders, ensuring that both police and fire departments have the resources they need to keep Atlantic City safe,” said John F. McMenamin, president of the PBA.
McDevitt’s Challenge and Political Landscape
Despite these endorsements, Small faces a tough challenge from Bob McDevitt, a former union leader with a significant following in the city. McDevitt has been critical of Small’s handling of Atlantic City’s finances and public safety issues, and is hoping to rally local unions to his side.
However, the backing from the firefighter unions and the PBA puts Small in a strong position heading into the primary. The support from these powerful public safety unions signals that Small has been able to align his policies with the needs of first responders, making him a trusted figure among those who work on the front lines to keep the city safe.
Support for Public Safety Remains a Core Issue
Public safety has always been a central issue in Atlantic City’s political landscape, and the firefighter unions’ endorsement is a clear indication that Small’s efforts to invest in emergency services and workers’ rights are paying off. His re-election campaign will likely continue to focus on these issues, with a particular emphasis on improving public safety infrastructure, ensuring fair treatment for first responders, and maintaining community safety standards.
As the race intensifies, Small’s endorsements from both police and firefighter unions are expected to be crucial in securing his re-election, demonstrating strong support from the key stakeholders in Atlantic City’s public safety network.