Bernards Township Democrats Reflect On Election Victories

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy and Democratic running mate Joan Bannan are reflecting on the recent election in which they led the Township Committee race, according to unofficial election results.

The vote totals list Duarte McCarthy with 6,741 votes and Bannan with 6,392.

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Republican candidates Paul Humbert and Kirsten Light trailed with 4,926 and 4,838 votes, respectively, according to the unofficial results.

"I am happy and humbled by the election outcome and the opportunity to continue serving our community," said McCarthy.

She also said, "My running mate, Joan Bannan, brings a wealth of experience from her previous service, and her strong skillset will be a wonderful asset to the Township Committee and our residents."

Duarte McCarthy also pointed to actions taken by the Township Committee over the past year.

"While some worried the township would derail under a Democratic majority, this past year has proven otherwise," said McCarthy. "Instead, the Township Committee worked together to meet our fourth round of Affordable Housing obligations with the minimum number of new units, hosted 'The Battle of Basking Ridge' to bring thousands in our community together around the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and successfully passed ordinances to prohibit data centers and enforce commercial property maintenance."

Bannan said she wants to continue that work if the results hold.

"I look forward to continuing this positive momentum in the coming term and working collaboratively with my colleagues to focus on the needs of our residents," she said.

Bannan also thanked the opposing candidates and campaign volunteers.

"I also want to express my sincere appreciation to our opponents, Mr. Humbert and Ms. Light, for their hard work and dedication, as well as to all the volunteers who supported the respective campaigns," said Bannan.

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