PARSIPPANY – The Morris County Republican Committee is looking to unite the county’s largest town, but it isn’t happening.
Councilman Justin Musella, who announced a GOP primary challenge to Mayor Jamie Barberio last June, says he’s staying in the race.
Or as he put it:
“Our campaign to end the cycle of corruption, overtaxation, and taxpayer funded overdevelopment of Parsippany cannot be intimidated.”
Last Friday, County Chair Laura Ali proposed settling the looming intra-party fight with a unity ticket. Barberio would run for reelection as mayor on the same ticket with Musella and fellow councilman Frank Neglia.
Ali has not always been in agreement with Barberio. Local Republicans remember that back in 2023, the mayor endorsed Thomas Mastrangelo’s challenge to incumbent state Sen. Joseph Pennacchio against the wishes of the county committee.
But now she’s looking ahead – and also a bit behind.
Republicans had a good 2024 election – in most places.
In Parsippany, however, as Ali noted, the Dems’ state and national ticket did well. Kamala Harris, Andy Kim and Mikie Sherrill all carried the town, prompting Ali to write:
“These results underscore the challenges of mobilizing a winning coalition in a township that has increasingly leaned Democratic in recent elections. The outcomes should serve as a call to action for us all – we must do everything possible to present a cohesive, compelling ticket that represents our party’s strongest attributes and that Parsippany voters can confidently rally behind.”
That means forgetting about a divisive primary and putting personal ambitions aside.
“Mayor Barberio brings to the table the experience and track record that Parsippany needs to continue forward momentum. Councilmen Musella and Neglia bring perspectives and demonstrated commitment to our community’s prosperity. Together, their collective leadership offers a well-rounded and formidable team that will stand out in the eyes of voters across the political spectrum. This ticket will have the full, unwavering support of the Morris County Republican Party.”
But … a primary:
“Conversely, an extended primary battle between our own loyal Republicans presents a gigantic risk. It will weaken our momentum and paint a picture of division that the opposing party will undoubtedly exploit. We cannot afford to be divided. By aligning behind a unity ticket now, we would position ourselves to focus wholly on defeating the Democrats in the general election.”
Ali called for a meeting on Sunday (yesterday) to discuss her idea, but Musella quickly said he would not attend.
And a few hours later, he dispatched a missive of his own, determined to stay in the race.
It ended thusly;
“See you on the campaign trail.”
(Visited 11 times, 11 visits today)
Flashpoint Parsippany has become a key sticking point for the GOP in New Jersey, as tensions rise within the party over the upcoming primary election. The town of Parsippany, located in Morris County, has long been a Republican stronghold, but recent developments have caused division among party members.
One of the main issues at play is the candidacy of incumbent Mayor Michael Soriano, a Democrat who has been in office since 2018. Soriano’s tenure has been marked by controversy, with some accusing him of mismanagement and overstepping his authority. This has led to calls for his removal from office, both from within the GOP and from residents of Parsippany.
On the other side of the aisle, there are those who support Soriano and believe he has been unfairly targeted by his opponents. They argue that he has made positive changes in the town and should be given the chance to continue his work.
The upcoming primary election in June will be crucial in determining the future of Parsippany and the GOP in New Jersey. With tensions running high, it is unclear how the party will come together to support a single candidate to challenge Soriano in the general election.
In addition to the mayoral race, there are other factors at play in Parsippany that could impact the outcome of the election. The town’s changing demographics and shifting political landscape have made it a battleground for both parties, with each side vying for control.
As the primary election draws near, all eyes will be on Parsippany to see how the GOP navigates this flashpoint and whether they can unite behind a candidate to take on Mayor Soriano. The outcome of this race could have far-reaching implications for both the town and the Republican Party in New Jersey.
