Essex Sheriff Election: Nash Running As Democrat In 2024 Primary

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Gary Nash, a retired captain from the Essex County Sheriff's Office, is throwing his hat into the ring to replace Armando Fontoura this year.

Fontoura recently announced that he will not seek re-election in 2024, setting up a power vacuum in the county that will need to be filled when his term ends.

Fontoura, 81, a Democratic Party member, has been a fixture in local politics for decades. He was first elected in 1990. See Related: Essex County's Longest-Tenured Sheriff Won't Seek Re-Election

Nash announced Friday that he is running in the primary election on June 4, setting up a potential showdown with Amir Jones – another veteran of the sheriff’s office – for the Democratic Party endorsement. See Related: Jones, Nash Running To Replace Fontoura As Essex County Sheriff

Throughout his career, Nash has served in several capacities with the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, including undercover work and leading task forces in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies. It’s experience that he plans to put to work if elected, he says.

“Throughout my career, I have been committed to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement and ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” Nash said.

“If elected, I will bring that same dedication and integrity to the role of sheriff, working tirelessly to serve and protect the residents of Essex County,” he added.

Nash said one of his major goals would be to build coalitions between police departments across the county.

“I believe that effective law enforcement requires collaboration and partnership between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve,” Nash said. “As sheriff, I will prioritize building trust and cooperation with residents, working together to address the challenges facing our county and ensure a safer future for all.”

Nash has secured an endorsement from Cpt. Jeff Allen Chambers, a retired fellow officer with the Essex County Sheriff’s Office.

“I've worked closely with Gary Nash for nearly 25 years, witnessing his superior leadership and intelligence,” Chambers said. “With Sheriff Armando Fontoura's retirement, Gary stands as the change our department desperately needs, ready to elevate our service to Essex County.”

Nash has also gained the support of Bloomfield Mayor Ted Gamble, who endorsed his candidacy last week as part of a common slate for the 2024 election.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.