The entire city council of East Hanover, New Jersey, has taken an unprecedented move and switched from the Democratic to the Republican Party.
The switch came after months of good conversations and was triggered by the “nastiness” and “vitriol” of national politics that have infiltrated local governance, leading to the Democratic Party’s increasing leftward shift.
The new GOP members, including Mayor Joseph Pannullo, council President Frank DeMaio, and fellow members, outlined their priorities, which include keeping taxes stable, investing in public safety needs, enhancing parks, and combating overburdening and unrealistic fair-share housing mandates.
While the Democrats in Morris County responded with disappointment, the county’s changing dynamics cannot be ignored. Although Democratic voter registrations have been closing the gap in recent years, Donald Trump won big in East Hanover in 2020, capturing 66% of the vote.
The shift by the town council to join the Republican Party is a great indication of the progress the Republican Party has made in the county, acknowledged by State Assemblyman Brian Bergen, who represents the 26th district, which includes East Hanover.
As we approach the upcoming elections, it is crucial to note that Democrats in Morris County have become stagnant, while the Republicans have momentum. Morris County is now 30% Democrat, while Republicans are at 34%.
This trend is set to continue, and it is imperative that voters pay attention and vote wisely. The Republican Party is excited to welcome Mayor Panullo and his council to their family and share the same values as them. It is just the beginning, and 2023 is set to be a big year.
