By Mark Dunec

This is a crucial time for America. This is not a time for voters to be beholden to partisan loyalty or chain our votes to their feelings we may have for one particular politician who is not even on the ballot. What we really need in Washington are leaders who are willing to work with all comers to keep moving America forward.

That is why, even though I am a Democrat and have run for the New Jersey's 11th Congressional District under the Democrat Party banner, I'm supporting Republican Jay Webber.

I've come to know him as a man with integrity and common sense. Webber is the only candidate in this race who has real experience reaching across the aisle as a state Assemblyman. He has delivered policies, like the landmark legislation that keeps predators out of our children's schools, that make New Jersey a better place.

Dunec: Over the last several years I have had increasing concerns that the mainstream Democratic elected officials and candidates have embraced a socialist ideology. (Courtesy photo)

Over the last several years I have had increasing concerns that the mainstream Democratic elected officials and candidates have embraced a socialist ideology. I have witnessed this change not just on a national level but in our district, county and even in my town of Livingston.

Democrat Mikie Sherrill's candidacy was born out of a movement that is based around nothing but opposition. We need a Congressional representative that will embrace the good things that are happening in this country. However, Sherrill has made it clear that she intends to reject the economic progress we have made and supports the policies of far-left Democrat leaders like Senate Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Gov. Phil Murphy.

North Jersey simply cannot afford their high-tax agenda.

Furthermore, when I look across the political landscape, it is only the Republican Party that has demonstrated through actions its unwavering support for the State of Israel. The United States must nurture our relationship with our greatest ally in the Middle East. I know that Jay understands the importance of Israel and the United State's mutual commitment to freedom, democracy and human rights. As a former member of the National Council of AIPAC, I trust that Jay Webber is the best candidate to stand up for Israel.

I have always put principles over partisan politics and will continue to do so. In having the opportunity to get to know Jay Webber, I have come to conclude that my own moderate vision of fiscal responsibility and social consideration is shared by him.

Webber will support his party leaders when they are right, oppose them when they are wrong, and always stand up for North Jersey. For these reasons, I am supporting Jay Webber.

Mark Dunec, a real estate appraiser who lives in Livingston, was the 2014 Democratic candidate in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District.

Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.