Verona, NJ — Verona Councilwoman Christine McGrath today announced her candidacy for Essex County Commissioner At-Large.

“I’m running for Essex County Commissioner At-Large to bring energetic, effective leadership that puts residents first and delivers local results,” said McGrath. “For over six years as a Councilwoman in Verona, I’ve proven that when you listen to residents, you can turn ideas into action and get things done.”

McGrath, who has served on the Verona Town Council since 2019, said her campaign will focus on transparency, affordability, public safety, and stronger collaboration between local and county government.

McGrath has already begun securing support from Democratic leadership across Essex County and is mobilizing the broad coalition she has built through years of organizing and elected service. Over the past decade, she has done the work, forging deep relationships and earning trust in communities across the county.

Local leaders in the Democratic party and residents are invited to learn more about Christine and her campaign through a series of events she plans to host around the County. The first one is on Saturday, February 28th in Verona from 10:30 am to 12 noon at a local Verona business. More information can be found here.

The nine-member Essex County Board of Commissioners plays a critical role in everyday life, overseeing infrastructure investments, public safety initiatives, county services for seniors and families, and fiscal oversight during challenging budget cycles.

“At a time of rising costs and federal funding cuts, we need strong, transparent leadership that understands the real challenges our towns are facing,” McGrath said. “County government must be a partner to our municipalities, helping keep our communities safe, affordable, and thriving.”

Throughout her time in local office, McGrath has emphasized proactive communication, resident engagement, and data-driven decision-making. She has built a reputation for accessibility and follow-through, ensuring that community input leads to measurable action.

“Families will be at the forefront of everything I do,” McGrath added. “Essex County government must work for our communities — and I’m running to make sure it does. I will serve as the bridge between local voices and county action, fighting to ensure our towns are heard and our families see real results.”

McGrath will seek the support of Democratic committee members at the Essex County Democratic Convention, which will be held March 21 at Caldwell University. At the Convention, Democratic Committee members will be able to cast votes for up to four County Commissioner - At Large candidates.

For more information, to volunteer, or to support the campaign, visit www.christineforessex.com.