Morris County Democratic Committee Votes to Remove Dover Committee Members Following 2025 Election Conduct Review

Morris County, NJ — The Morris County Democratic Committee (MCDC) today announced that its full membership has voted to remove all members of the Dover Democratic Committee following a formal review of conduct during the 2025 general election cycle.

Under MCDC bylaws, removal requires approval by a two-thirds majority of participating members. A total of 408 out of 608 eligible members participated in the vote, and 96% supported removal, exceeding the required threshold. Each removal was considered and voted on individually, rather than as part of a single, collective action.

The removal follows a months-long process initiated by the MCDC Executive Board after concerns were raised regarding conduct during the 2025 general election that was believed to be detrimental to the party’s mission and in direct violation of MCDC bylaws.

“This decision reflects our commitment to accountability, unity, and the integrity of the Democratic Party in Morris County,” said Darcy Draeger, Chair of the Morris County Democratic Committee. “Our bylaws exist to ensure that all members support Democratic candidates and conduct themselves in a manner consistent with our shared values.”

The Executive Board first notified Dover Democratic Committee members in December 2025 of specific concerns and requested voluntary resignations. Members were advised that under the bylaws, they had the right to appear before the Executive Board, and the opportunity to present testimony, submit documentation, and be accompanied by a representative. No Dover members chose to sign up for a hearing or participate in the process.

The conduct cited in the review included:

• Gubernatorial Race: Members publicly supported Republican Jack Ciattarelli over Democratic nominee and primary winner Mikie Sherrill.
• Legislative District 25: Members advocated for Republican Christian Barranco over Democratic primary winners Marisa Sweeney and Steve Pylypchuk.
• Dover Ward Races: Members promoted write-in and Republican candidates (Toro, Orama, Rosario) over Democratic primary winners Mendez, Rugg, and Almada.
• Anti-Harassment Policy Violations: Members created and distributed materials targeting primary winner Daniella Mendez that were offensive, intimidating, and demeaning, in violation of MCDC policy.
• Also at issue is that a member who witnesses misconduct and does nothing is not neutral. The duty to uphold the mission of the MCDC to support Democratic candidates and abide by its Anti-Harassment Policy goes beyond avoiding wrongdoing. It requires taking reasonable steps to stop or address behavior that undermines the party’s integrity. Choosing to remain silent or ignore misconduct can be treated as condoning it.

Accordingly, the matter advanced to a full membership vote beginning on March 17, 2026. Following deliberation, and a 48-hour voting period, MCDC membership voted to remove the individuals from their roles within the county committee. This action applies solely to party positions and does not affect any elected public offices held by the individuals.