Party chair Jerry Scanlan said "a number of people" objected to media coverage
LAFAYETTE -- The media is being kept out of the Sussex County Republicans' annual "Lincoln Day" brunch on Sunday, with all five GOP candidates for governor scheduled to attend.
In announcing the decision Wednesday, county party chair Jerry Scanlan said "a number of people" objected to media coverage of the $60-per-ticket brunch, which is expected to draw about 200.
He declined to elaborate.
Scanlan said the five Republicans running for governor -- Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, Steven Rogers, Joseph Rullo and Hirsch Singh -- have agreed to attend and will be given an opportunity to speak.
Monday was the filing deadline for the June 6 primary.
The Sussex GOP's Lincoln Day brunch, ordinarily held in February, has been open to the media in prior years.
Former "Saturday Night Live" star Joe Piscopo, who is considering running for governor as a independent, was the guest speaker in 2016.
State Sen. Joseph Kyrillos, R-13th District, was the speaker in 2012, during his unsuccessful challenge to U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez.
Sunday's brunch is scheduled to run from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lafayette House.
Proceeds benefit the Sussex County GOP.
Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RobJenningsNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.