Republicans Try to Make a Contest of it in Morristown
MORRISTOWN - Republicans in this Democratic leaning town are hoping for a resurgence.
A few months ago, Andrew DeLaney, the son of the late John "Jay" DeLaney Jr., a former GOP mayor, announced plans to run for the town council.
Now he has company.
Republicans have unveiled a full, three-person slate. Joining DeLaney are Aaron A.J. Oliver and Celeste Kaitsa.Three at-large seats are up.
The incumbent Democrats seeking reelection are David Silva, Toshiba Foster and Nathan Umbriac.
Democratic Mayor Tim Dougherty, who has held the job since being elected in 2009, is seeking another term. Republicans did not file a candidate to challenge Dougherty.
The most intriguing person on the Republican council ticket is Oliver, who used to be a Democrat.
In fact, he chaired the Morristown Democratic Committee and in 2021, ran for the Morris County commission on the Democratic ticket.
Oliver is pro-life, which was at odds with the party's position.
That caused problems for him back in 2021. He was endorsed for commissioner - but then unendorsed - by NJ11th for change, a left-leaning public interest group.
A few months into 2022, Oliver officially switched parties and became a Republican.
A statement from the group says residents need a voice on the council "that is independent of the Administration," and of special interests.
The Republicans say they will concentrate on the following issues:
- Put residents first in every development deal. Demand full transparency and ensure all long-term (Morristown Medical Center) plans align with the Town Master Plan and serve the people of Morristown, especially the immediate neighborhood – not just outside interests.
2. Enforce our town code fairly for everyone. Especially crack down on illegal stacking and protect the integrity of all our neighborhoods.
3. Strengthen community policing and protect public spaces. Keep Morristown’s parks and streets clean, safe, and welcoming for all residents.
4. Tackle homelessness with compassion and collaboration. Work toward proactive, community-driven solutions that support both the unhoused and the broader town.
The GOP trio figures to have a tough hill to climb - Kamala Harris won the town last fall over Donald Trump by almost 2-1.
But every election is different.
