New Jersey LCV, the leading political voice for the environment in New Jersey, announced its 2026 endorsements for local races in the general election. New Jersey LCV is a nonpartisan organization whose mission is to elect environmental champions.

New Jersey LCV announced these endorsements after a comprehensive review of hundreds of races at the county and local level from every corner of New Jersey. We are also proud to support a diverse, bipartisan group of candidates to represent their local communities and champion local environmental policies, from managing stormwater and reducing flooding to protecting open space and boosting clean energy.

"With affordability continuing to strain family budgets and ongoing attacks on environmental protections, it's more important than ever to elect local leaders who will stand up for safe drinking water, healthy communities, affordable clean energy, and democracy," said Allison McLeod, Interim Executive Director, New Jersey LCV. "That's why we're proud to endorse candidates in local races across New Jersey. From protecting neighborhoods from flooding and warehouse sprawl to expanding clean energy and lowering energy costs, local elected officials are on the front lines of the issues that matter most to residents. Their leadership will help shape healthier, more affordable, and more resilient communities for years to come."

New Jersey LCV endorsed a total of 49 candidates across 28 separate races across 11 counties. More than 60% of endorsed candidates are women, and nearly a quarter are people of color.

"Our mission is simple: Elect leaders who will put New Jersey's families, communities, and environment first," said Randy Jones, New Jersey LCV C4 Board Chair. "Every election matters because the people we choose today will make the decisions that shape our air, water, open spaces, and energy future for years to come. That's why we're committed to helping voters identify candidates who share our values and are ready to lead."

New Jersey LCV has endorsed the following candidates for local office in 2026:

* Denotes incumbent

New Jersey LCV website link to endorsed candidates.

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Atlantic County:

 

County Clerk  

Lisa Bender (Atlantic County Clerk)

 

“I am honored to receive the endorsement from New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. I firmly believe in the mission of the organization which aligns with my personal values and professional experience. I will bring the mission of New Jersey LCV to the Clerk’s office because sustainability should be a goal for every organization as it benefits the public and ensures success into the future.” - Lisa Bender

 

Atlantic County Commissioner

Kyle Gornick (Atlantic County Commissioner)

 

“Protecting our environment and preserving Atlantic County’s open spaces are responsibilities I take seriously, which is why I’m proud to have earned the consideration of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. I believe Atlantic County can pursue a diverse, forward-looking energy portfolio, including responsibly-sited solar, while protecting the natural resources and character that make our communities special. As a member of the Atlantic City Planning Board, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of thoughtful planning and smart stewardship in an environmentally fragile community. I’ll bring that same approach to the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners: protecting our open spaces, supporting practical clean-energy solutions, and making decisions that leave Atlantic County stronger for the next generation.” - Kyle Gornick

 

Burlington County:

 

County Commissioner

Randy Brolo* (Burlington County Commissioner)

Jonathan Chebra (Burlington County Commissioner)

 

“Protecting our environment means protecting our health, strengthening our economy, and safeguarding our future for generations to come. We are grateful for the League of Conservation Voters’ tireless work to protect our clean air, water, and open spaces — and honored to earn their endorsement. We look forward to working together with LCV to keep Burlington County a healthy, sustainable place to live, work, and raise a family.”

 

Chesterfield Township

Denise Koetas-Dale* (Chesterfield Township Committee)

Luke Pavlov (Chesterfield Township Committee)

“This is my third time proudly receiving an endorsement from New Jersey LCV. I am honored for their ongoing recognition of my commitment to strong environmental policy and protecting Chesterfield’s residents and lands.” - Denise Koetas-Dale

“I’m grateful to New Jersey LCV for their endorsement of my candidacy for the 2026 election. Their support is a powerful testament to the importance of protecting our environment at every level of government. I’m proud to stand with New Jersey’s environmental leaders, and I look forward to being a strong voice for environmental stewardship in Chesterfield.” - Luke Pavlov

Evesham Borough

Jaclyn Veasy* (Mayor, Evesham Township)

Heather Cooper* (Evesham Township Council)

Krystal Hunter* (Evesham Township Council)

 

“Protecting Evesham’s natural resources and open spaces is an investment in the future of our community. We are proud of the progress we’ve made expanding preserved land, improving parks and trails, and advancing sustainability initiatives throughout Evesham. We’re honored to receive the League of Conservation Voters’ endorsement and look forward to continuing our work to keep Evesham a healthy, sustainable community for generations to come.”

 

Moorestown Council

Tom Bader* (Moorestown Township Council)

Quinton Law* (Moorestown Township Council)

 

"We are grateful that the League of Conservation Voters recognizes our vision for a Moorestown that prioritizes environmental protection without sacrificing progress. We look forward to working with them in the future on initiatives to ensure that our town is a sustainable place to live, work, and play."

 

Essex County:

 

County Commissioner

Deborah Engel (Essex County Commissioner At-Large)

 

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Protecting our environment means thinking beyond municipal boundaries and working together on the regional challenges we all share, from stormwater management and climate resilience to transportation and preserving our natural resources. I look forward to partnering with New Jersey LCV to help build a healthier, more sustainable Essex County.” - Deborah Engel

 

Leonard Luciano* (Essex County Commissioner, District 4)

 

“Everyone, especially our elected leaders, need to do their part to support residents, businesses, students, and protect the environment. The future of this state, counties and local communities depend on it.” - Leonard Luciano

 

Christine McGrath (Essex County Commissioner At-Large)

 

“I am proud to accept the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and look forward to working with their members to protect Essex County’s parks, open spaces, and natural resources. I believe protecting our environment is fundamentally about protecting our residents, and as County Commissioner, I will make clean air and water, climate resilience, and healthy, sustainable communities a priority.” - Christine McGrath

 

Medinah Muhammad (Essex County Commissioner, District 3)

"I’m running for Essex County Commissioner to represent District 3 because environmental justice is not an abstract issue; in our communities, climate change is already deeply personal. For me, advocacy in this space means the difference between children struggling with asthma and children breathing clean air; between communities having access to electric vehicle charging infrastructure that helps reduce emissions and being left behind in the transition to a cleaner future; and between blocks of homes being prepared for flooding and families being devastated by another ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ storm. The people who have contributed the least to our environmental challenges are too often the ones bearing the greatest burden. As County Commissioner, I will fight for a healthier, more resilient Essex County—one that invests in clean energy, prepares our communities for extreme weather, protects our natural resources, and ensures that every neighborhood benefits from a cleaner, healthier future. Every family deserves the opportunity to live, work, and raise their children in a safe and healthy environment. Environmental justice is economic justice, public health is community well-being, and protecting our planet means protecting our people. That is the Essex County I am ready to help build." - Medinah Muhammad

 

Gloucester County:

 

Woolwich Township

Natalie Matthias* (Woolwich Township Committee)

Jacqueline Williams* (Woolwich Township Committee)

 

"I'm honored to receive this endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Preserving Woolwich's farmland isn't just a priority for me - it's a responsibility we owe to future generations, and I'm grateful for a partner who shares that commitment." - Natalie Matthias

 

“I am deeply honored to receive an endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This support means a great deal to me as someone who has long been committed to sustainability and recycling in my personal life. I am committed to protecting Woolwich's farmland, parks, and open spaces for future generations in our community.” - Jacqueline Williams

 

Hunterdon County:

 

County Commissioner

Shaun C. Van Doren* (Hunterdon County Commissioner)

 

“I want to thank the League of Conservation Voters for their endorsement of my re-election campaign for Hunterdon County Commissioner. I am proud to stand alongside them to advocate for protection and preservation of our natural resources, open space and farmland for generations to come and safe drinking water for all residents.” - Shaun C. Van Doren

 

Clinton Town

John Kashwick* (Clinton Town Council)

Kim Stentz* (Clinton Town Council)

“We are grateful to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This endorsement reflects our commitment to turning environmental values into action—from establishing the Town’s Open Space Trust Fund and investing in PFAS treatment to expanding tree planting, protecting open space, and advancing sustainable municipal policies. Protecting Clinton’s environment is about more than preserving natural resources; it is about safeguarding clean drinking water, enhancing our parks and neighborhoods, strengthening our community’s resilience, and preserving the quality of life that makes our town such a special place to live. We remain committed to practical, science-based solutions and to working with residents, local partners, and organizations like NJ LCV to ensure that Clinton remains a healthy, sustainable community for generations to come.”

 

Mercer County:

 

City of Trenton

Austin Edwards, Esq. (Mayor of Trenton)

 

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. For me, environmental justice is about making sure Black and Latino families in Trenton do not continue carrying the heaviest burdens of flooding, aging infrastructure, extreme heat, pollution, and development decisions that too often happen without enough community input. Throughout my career, I have worked to connect environmental justice with opportunity. As an Isles board member, I have championed GOTrenton and its ability to give residents free, reliable transportation to jobs, schools, health care, and essential services. On the Trenton School Board, I have supported Trees for Trenton and pushed for our young people to have real pathways into wind, solar, and other skilled-trades careers. I have also been a strong advocate for Reimagining Trenton’s Waterfront and the Route 29 Urban Boulevard Project, a project I studied closely through my Princeton MPP thesis because reconnecting our neighborhoods to the Delaware River is both an environmental and racial justice issue. As mayor, I will work to expand GOTrenton, build safer and greener streets, tackle flooding and sewer infrastructure, plant more trees in neighborhoods that need them most, and set stronger environmental standards for redevelopment. Just as importantly, I want Trenton residents to be trained, hired, and able to build careers from the clean-energy and infrastructure investments coming into our city. For too long, communities like ours have been expected to live with the environmental consequences while other communities receive the investment. I want Trenton to help change that. We can create jobs, protect public health, reconnect our neighborhoods, and build a cleaner and more resilient city at the same time. I am grateful for NJLCV’s confidence in my leadership and look forward to working together to make environmental justice real for the people of Trenton.” - Austin Edwards

 

 

Crystal Feliciano* (Trenton City Council At-Large)

 

"I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This endorsement affirms my commitment to protecting our environment while building a stronger, healthier Trenton. Together, we will continue working to improve our parks, safeguard clean water, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and ensure every neighborhood benefits from a cleaner, greener future. I am grateful for New Jersey LCV's confidence and look forward to advancing policies that protect our environment for generations to come." - Crystal Feliciano

 

Monmouth County:

 

County Commissioner

Chelsey Tanner (Monmouth County Commissioner)

Sofia J. Ugarte (Monmouth County Commissioner)

 

"I am proud to be endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters. With my background in energy efficiency, I’m excited to work alongside LCV, both on the campaign trail and once elected to office, to build a more sustainable future for our communities. Systems don’t just happen to us. They happen through us. And elected officials who are willing to do the work and deliver for residents are the ones who have the power to shape those systems for the better." - Sofia Ugarte (Monmouth County Commissioner)

 

“I am dedicated to ensuring that every community we serve enjoys a strong quality of life. Preserving and advancing our environmental landscape, green spaces, and natural beauty is essential not only for the health of our planet, but also for our mental health and overall well-being. I am proud to be endorsed by League of Conservation Voters in my run for commissioner” - Chelsey Tanner (Monmouth County Commissioner)

 

Allentown Borough

Erica DeKranes* (Allentown Borough Council)

 

“New Jersey is a leader in environmental policy, thanks to the work of organizations like the League of Conservation Voters. I'm proud to be endorsed, and to continue my efforts to bring green initiatives to Allentown.” - Erica DeKranes

 

Atlantic Highlands Borough

Jon Crowley* (Atlantic Highlands Borough Council)

Alyson Forbes* (Atlantic Highlands Borough Council)

 

"I've championed laws—like the plastic straw ban—that protect New Jersey's wildlife and natural resources. The backing of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters isn't just an endorsement; it's a partnership in the fight for our environment's future." - Jon Crowley

 

"Here in Atlantic Highlands, we believe that clean water and a protected waterfront aren't optional, they're essential. That's why I'm proud to stand with the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters in fighting for the health of our waterways, today and for the future." - Alyson Forbes

 

Morris County:

 

County Commissioner

Chris Russo (Morris County Commissioner)

 

“It's an honor to receive the support of the League of Conservation Voters and I'm proud to fight alongside them for a more sustainable future. Morris County hosts one of the strongest county park systems in New Jersey, yet over many years the current County Commissioner Board has repeatedly cut funding constraining our ability to maintain these incredible public resources and environmentally safe grounds. If elected as a Morris County Commissioner, I would commit to ensuring our public spaces receive appropriate investment and protection. Preserving open space helps protect drinking water, mitigates flood risks, safeguards wildlife habitats, and preserves the quality of life that makes Morris County a great place to live and play." - Chris Russo

 

 

Boonton Town

Melissa DiSalvo (Boonton Town Council, Ward 1)

 

“I'm proud to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. I'll work to reduce our environmental impact while keeping the needs of Boonton residents at the center of every decision.” - Melissa DiSalvo

 

Chatham Borough Council

Nicholas Eck (Chatham Borough Council)

Sophia Hull (Chatham Borough Council)

 

"We are honored to receive an endorsement from NJLCV, and proud that our demonstrated histories of environmental work are being recognized in this way. We are committed to protecting the environment and increasing sustainable practices at every turn.  We are dedicated to ensuring our residents have access to clean drinking water, flood protections, recreational outdoor spaces, and a robust tree canopy for generations to come."

 

Lincoln Park Borough

Lisa Walker (Lincoln Park Borough Council)

 

“I am proud to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters.  As an environmentalist and flood plain resident, I see the impacts of climate change and overdevelopment on our community every day. The support and guidance of NJLCV will be invaluable as I advocate for sustainability, equity and quality of life in Lincoln Park.” - Lisa Walker

 

Long Hill Township

Jason Foley (Long Hill Township Committee)

David Hands (Long Hill Township Committee)

Mansi Patel (Long Hill Township Committee)

 

"We are incredibly honored to have the endorsement of the New Jersey LCV, who share our values for protecting the wonderful, natural environment of New Jersey. Long Hill Township is recognized within the NJ State Plan as an area for Environmentally Sensitive Planning (PA5). This distinction is fairly unique within the Metropolitan areas of Northeast New Jersey and one that we are proud to embrace. Ensuring we act as good stewards in protecting the environment requires collaboration and coordination with our neighboring municipalities and counties, therefore, the endorsement of the New Jersey LCV provides a powerful uniting voice to help bring focus and attention to environmental concerns that we all must and do share."

 

Mendham Township

Amalia Duarte* (Mendham Township Committee)

 

"In my nine years on the Township Committee, I have been a consistent voice for protecting the beautiful natural environment that makes Mendham Township such a special place to live. I spearheaded getting the township to conform to the Highlands Council, which provides greater environmental protection in the face of development. I wrote a local Dark Skies law that was adopted last year to reduce light pollution. And, I have supported the work of our volunteer Environmental Commission since 2018, serving as the liaison. I am committed to preserving Mendham Township's unique small-town charm, open spaces, and rural character." - Amalia Duarte

 

Morris Plains Borough

Lee Connor (Morris Plains Borough Council)

Rosaria DeNova (Morris Plains Borough Council)

Nancy Verga (Morris Plains Borough Mayor)

 

“Land use and conservation issues are at the very top of my priorities list. Even in an almost-fully-built-out town like Morris Plains, we need to always be thinking ahead about our land use and water issues. It will be wonderful to have NJLCV as a resource and partner!” - Lee Connor

 

“Our team is honored to earn the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters! From my corporate career to running a local small business, I’ve learned that good governance starts with smart, big-picture planning. In Morris Plains, conservation is essential to managing stormwater, preventing recurring flooding, and preserving the character of our town for future generations.  Lee Connor, Nancy Verga, and I are committed to bringing proactive, environmentally responsible leadership to Borough Hall.”  - Rosaria DeNova

 

“I’m honored by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity to help preserve Morris Plains’ green spaces, protect our clean air and water, and lead our community toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.” - Nancy Verga

 

Morris Township Committee

Samantha Rothman* (Morris Township Committee)

 

"I am honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation

Voters. Protecting our natural resources has been the defining focus of my education,

career, volunteer service, and public life. I look forward to continuing to champion

science-based policies that preserve open space, strengthen our communities, and

ensure that future generations inherit a healthier, more resilient New Jersey." - Samantha Rothman

 

 

Somerset County:

 

County Commissioner

Paul Drake* (Somerset County Commissioner)

Elizabeth Graner* (Somerset County Commissioner)

 

“I’m proud to have the support of the League of Conservation Voters and grateful for their leadership in fighting for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. Somerset County has an obligation to be a responsible steward of our land and natural resources, while also protecting our communities from the challenges of climate change. As County Commissioner, I look forward to continuing our partnership with LCV and working together to protect open space, strengthen our infrastructure, and make smart investments that benefit both our environment and our residents.” - Paul Drake

 

“I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters and grateful for their partnership and leadership in protecting our environment. Somerset County’s open spaces, parks, farms, and natural resources are part of what makes our communities such a wonderful place for all families to live and play, and that's why as County Commissioner I will continue to work thoughtfully and strategically to ensure they're preserved for generations to come. I look forward to continuing the great work LCV has spearheaded across the county to advance responsible growth, protect our environment, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and ensure that our county remains a great place to live for anyone that calls Somerset home.” - Elizabeth Graner

 

Bernards Township Committee

Ana Duarte McCarthy* (Bernards Township Committee)

 

"NJ LCV advocates for policies and practices that align with our Township’s goal to protect open space and promote the conservation of historic sites and districts, energy resources and value natural resources. As an elected official I am a steward of our community, and value the partnership with NJ LCV to protect our vital resources for tomorrow’s generation of residents.” - Ana Duarte McCarthy

 

Somerville Borough

Mallory Craig-Karim (Somerville Borough Council)

 

“Somerville’s green spaces and open land are part of what makes this Borough worth fighting for. As a mom raising my daughter here, I want her to grow up in a community where parks are protected, natural resources are respected, and environmental decisions are made with the future in mind. That is the kind of leadership I will bring to Borough Council.” - Mallory Craig-Karim

 

Warren Township

Shaun Fine* (Warren Township Committee)

Vanessa Kian* (Warren Township Committee)

 

“Protecting our environment and preserving open space are deeply important to me, both as an elected official and as a father of four children who love spending time outdoors. I am committed not only to preserving our open spaces, but also to making them more accessible to all residents through improved trails, thoughtful stewardship, and education. An endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters would be especially meaningful because it would affirm my work and vision to protect these resources today and ensure future generations can enjoy them for years to come.” - Shaun Fine

 

“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Protecting Warren’s open spaces, preserving the character of our community, and making thoughtful decisions about growth have always been priorities for me. I look forward to continuing that work and partnering with NJLCV to make sure we protect the environment while building a strong and sustainable future for Warren.” - Vanessa Kian

 

Sussex County:

 

County Commissioner

Jack DeGroot* (Sussex County Commissioner)

 

"I’m blessed to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV for my reelection as Sussex County Commissioner. During my tenure, I’ve worked to preserve farmland and open space, protect our waterways, and address threats facing Lake Musconetcong. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Sussex County and protecting its natural resources alongside the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters." - Jack Degroot

 

Warren County:

 

Washington Borough

Ethel Conry (Washington Borough Council)

Josephine Noone (Washington Borough Council)

“I am honored to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Alongside the League of Conservation Voters, I will never give up on putting the environment or our residents first!” - Ethel Conry

"I am proud to be endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters. I will partner with the League of Conservation Voters to protect the environment, combat climate change, and advocate for environmental justice." - Josephine Noone

New Jersey LCV is a nonpartisan organization whose mission is to elect environmental champions. It is the only New Jersey environmental group with both a Political Action Committee (PAC) and Super PAC.

Paid for by New Jersey LCV Political Action Committee, PO Box 1237, Trenton, NJ

08607