Reply Erik Peterson, 55, is among the two Republican candidates running. (Randy Monceaux Photography) DISTRICT 23, NJ — New Jersey General Assembly Legislative District 23's preliminary election on June 8 has four candidates running for two open seats on the assembly. Erik Peterson, 55, is among the two Republican candidates running. Peterson has served as assemblyman for district 23 since 2009 and also currently works as an attorney. He previously served as Hunterdon County Freeholder. Peterson is married to his wife Jenni and they have four children Sophie 18, Clay 17, Veronica 15, and Samantha 12. Jenni works as a municipal court violations clerk. Find out what's happening in Bridgewater with free, real-time updates from Patch.