Chiusolo Concedes District 4 Freeholder Race, Thanks Supporters

Cedar Grove deputy mayor Joseph Chiusolo has conceded defeat in the photo-finish District 4 Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholder race.

"Based on the numbers as they are, I've lost the election," Chiusolo told Patch Thursday.

With a 230-vote lead for Luciano, and just 123 provisional ballots cast, Essex County Clerk Chris Durkin declared Luciano the unofficial winner Wednesday night.

The less-than 1 percent margin of victory for Luciano, a West Caldwell Democrat who had held the seat on an interim basis since August, indicates a highly divided electorate, which Chiusolo says is proof that his message got through to voters.

"We had an old fashioned campaign: reaching out to voters, going door to door and communicating. It's something I've done throughout my whole life. I've never hidden from the voice of the people, they were completely engaged in what I was saying."

He also had a piece of advice for the Freeholder board, which echoed a refrain from his campaign.

"It's important that the current and new freeholders understand and govern with basic business principals so they start embracing much-needed fiscal reforms."

Chiusolo said he was "shocked" upon learning the results, and pledged to continue his mission as an advocate for fiscal responsibility. He said he is looking forward to continuing to serve the residents of Cedar Grove, who supported him over his opponent by a nearly 3:1 margin.

"I'm never going to walk away from speaking about what I feel and speaking with people and connecting with them. The future to me is very rosy and sunny. I'm going to continue to be a great dad to my daughter and continue to watch her grow and continue to grow my business and serve the people of Cedar Grove as I've enjoyed doing for the last 14 years."

Chiusolo thanked his daughter, Daniella for her support during the campaign, which included recruiting volunteers and supporters at her school, as well as his campaign manager, staff and Essex County Republican Chairman, Al Barlas.

The final vote count for Chiusolo and Luciano, minus 123 provisional ballots that have not been tallied is as follows:

The results are unofficial until certified by the Essex County Clerk's office.

Luciano could not be immediately reached for comment.