Jefferson Republican Primary: Candidates Tout Endorsements Ahead Of Tuesday's Race

JEFFERSON, NJ — Competing Republican slates in Jefferson Township's June 2 primary are each claiming significant endorsements heading into Tuesday's vote, with incumbent Mayor Eric Wilsusen highlighting support from county and state officials and the Save Jefferson Team announcing backing from retired township police officers.

Wilsusen, who is seeking re-election, received endorsements from State Sen. Anthony Bucco, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, all of whom stood with his campaign at a Jefferson Township Republican Club meeting in February.

Wilsusen and running mate Melissa also received the majority vote of the Jefferson Township Republican County Committee at its March convention.

"Strong partnerships with elected officials at all levels — from both sides of the aisle — are how real results are achieved in Jefferson Township," Wilsusen said, pointing to his administration's handling of the Lake Hopatcong harmful algal bloom, COVID-19, Tropical Storm Isaias and multiple infrastructure challenges including the Weldon Road and Route 15 South bridge closures and a Route 80 sinkhole.

The Save Jefferson Team — backing Christian Barranco for mayor and Sheila Brown and Dottie Santasieri for Township Council — announced endorsements from four retired members of the Jefferson Township PBA Local 190 Retirees Club: Lt. Sean Krater, Sgt. Tommy Fedo, Sgt. Justin Gjelsvik and Cpl. Eric Sudak.

"These are men who spent their careers answering Jefferson's calls for help, walking its neighborhoods, and looking out for its families," the Save Jefferson Team said in a statement.

The group said the endorsement reflects a shared commitment to leadership that is "accountable, transparent, and committed to putting residents first."

The Republican primary is Tuesday, June 2. No Democrat filed to run for mayor, making Tuesday's Republican primary the decisive contest.

Read More Here: Jefferson Mayor Wilsusen, Challenger Barranco Make Final Pitches Before June 2 Primary

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com