As Castaldo joins VFAF (Veterans for America First), he will serve as the organization's primary representative in New Jersey. He will be responsible for vetting and recruiting MAGA candidates, building a team, and leading efforts to Make New Jersey Great Again—aligned with the platform of the VFAF grassroots movement and his affiliated organizations, including MAHA's Victory Garden Alliance, a VFAF partner.
Rich Castaldo: A Patriot's Path from the People to the Polls
Rich Castaldo’s journey into the heart of New Jersey politics began not in the halls of government, but in the everyday grit of business, filmmaking, and community service. Born in New York and raised with a deep respect for American values, Rich graduated from Tottenville High School and went on to earn a degree from Rutgers University in 2020. From an early age, he believed in hard work, faith, and the idea that ordinary Americans could—and should—stand up to protect their freedoms.
A successful businessman and creative storyteller, Castaldo built a career writing and directing films that reflected his patriotic worldview. But it was the growing disconnect between New Jersey’s political elite and its working families that stirred something deeper in him. He decided to run for public office—not as a politician, but as a citizen determined to return power to the people.
In 2025, Rich Castaldo launched his campaign for the New Jersey State Assembly in District 13. As a proud conservative and vocal supporter of President Donald Trump since 2015, Rich brought a bold America First message to voters, pledging to defend veterans, cut taxes, secure borders, and back law enforcement without apology.
His message quickly gained national attention.
Veterans for America First (VFAF)—a powerhouse grassroots organization of veterans, first responders, and America First activists—threw its full support behind Rich, praising his commitment to national defense and constitutional principles. The endorsement gave his campaign a powerful lift and validated his stance as a fighter for the forgotten men and women of New Jersey.
Shortly after, Rich received the endorsement of none other than former NYPD Commissioner Bernard Kerik. Known for his leadership in the aftermath of 9/11 and his steadfast support of law enforcement, Kerik recognized a kindred spirit in Castaldo.
“Rich Castaldo is a staunch supporter of law enforcement and our veterans,” Kerik said in a public statement. “I fully support and endorse Rich for the New Jersey State Assembly. Vote Rich Castaldo to make New Jersey Great Again!”
Throughout the campaign, Castaldo refused to play politics as usual. He ran on principle, not popularity. He called taxes “legalized theft,” and vowed to fight for the working class. He even defended himself pro se in court against political attacks—a testament to his unshakable resolve and refusal to be intimidated by the establishment machine.
Though he ultimately fell short in the Republican primary, Rich Castaldo’s campaign left a lasting impression. Garnering over 27% of the vote, he emerged as a rising voice in New Jersey’s conservative movement—a voice that many believe is just getting started.
