Hazlet Democrats Elect Two New, Young Leaders For 2020

HAZLET, NJ — The Hazlet Township Democratic Committee has tapped Vincent Solomeno, 34, and Mariel DiDato, 28, to lead the party’s local effort heading into the 2020 election.

Solomeno replaces Kevin Lavan as municipal chairman and DiDato replaces Mary Paraskevas as vice chair. Lavan was the Hazlet mayor from 2009 to 2010.

“As we enter 2020, I believe it is important that our organization welcome young leadership to meet the challenges of a new decade,” he said. “It has been my privilege to serve but it’s time for new blood."

Solomeno and DiDato are the first Millenials to lead the local Hazlet Democratic party. Solomeno is a U.S. Army veteran and third-generation Hazlet resident.

“Mariel and I will focus on growing our membership and recruiting competitive candidates for Hazlet Township Committee,” said Solomeno. “This is a big tent. There is room at the table for everyone."

DiDato, who also serves as recording secretary of the Monmouth County Democrats, is interested in engaging Hazlet residents of all political backgrounds.

“2020 is a big year for election turnout,” she said. “It’s important that we work with people from across our community and have a conversation about Hazlet’s high property taxes, road congestion and overdevelopment. Our quality of life is at stake.”

For more information or to get involved, follow "Hazlet Democrats" on Facebook or visit www.hazletdemocrats.org.