Press Release: Muñoz and Matsikoudis Release First Ad: “Grateful”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 2025

CONTACT: Kean MacLelland

Union County, NJ – Today, Muñoz and Matsikoudis for Assembly released their first ad of the 2025 General Election cycle, entitled “Grateful.” The ad highlights the story of Lorri Faris, a survivor – now “thriver” – of domestic violence, and how legislators like Assemblywomen Nancy Muñoz and Michele Matsikoudis are fighting for reforms in Trenton to increase access to counseling, expand risk assessments, and work to support survivors.

“As a nurse, I have seen firsthand the lasting impacts of domestic violence situations,” said Nancy Muñoz. “In Trenton, Michele and I have made it a priority to expand counseling and strengthen protections for survivors, and I will always be proud to use my platform to advocate for survivors and families.”

“Every survivor deserves to feel safe, supported, empowered, and heard. Nancy and I will remain committed to advancing common sense reforms that not only hold abusers accountable but also give survivors the tools they need to heal, and turn their stories into advocacy,” added Michele Matsikoudis.

“Surviving domestic violence with my children was the hardest journey of my life, but it gave me a new perspective on resilience and hope. That’s why I am so thankful for Nancy Muñoz and Michele Matsikoudis, who are working in Trenton to make sure survivors don’t have to walk this path alone. Their leadership is giving families like mine the support to not only survive but thrive,” Lorri Faris shared.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. The New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233). Calls are confidential and provide access to information, crisis intervention, referral, and advocacy services.

Script:
(Faris) “My name is Lorri Faris. My children and I are survivors of domestic violence. Surviving the domestic violence was nothing short of a miracle. I am so grateful for legislators like Nancy Muñoz and Michele Matsikoudis. Together, Nancy and Michele are expanding access to counseling, improving risk assessment, and ensuring survivors have the resources needed to get back on their feet. Always and everywhere be thankful – that is a core value of mine. And I trust Nancy and Michele to stand up for survivors.”

Watch “Grateful”

Nancy Muñoz has been representing the residents of District 21 since her first election in 2009. She is currently the highest-ranking Republican woman in Trenton, where she serves as the Budget Officer and as the ranking member of the Health Committee.

Michele Matsikoudis was elected to the Assembly in 2021. Michele currently serves on the Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture, and Education Committees, and as the Assistant Minority Conference Leader. Prior to her election to the Assembly, she served as Councilwoman in New Providence.

Editor’s Note: This release is distributed for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement.