Having spent the last 20 years constructing relationships and politically fruitful alliances, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh tonight won reelection, becoming the first Paterson Mayor to win three successive four-year terms.

Sayegh started his career in city politics on the School Board and then as the 6th Ward Councilman. After two unsuccessful citywide campaigns, he first became mayor in 2018, won reelection in 2022, and then tonight, again staring down his nemesis Councilman Alex Mendez, 6,400 to 5,800.

The incumbent also defeated First Ward Councilman Mike Jackson and former 2nd Ward Councilman Mohammed Akhtaruzzaman.

Sayegh prevailed in difficult circumstances, with the Bengali community divided and key African American leaders tentative. The mayor made up those soft spots (relative to his 2022 victory) with the pickup of some Dominicans who fell out with Mendez and other pockets of Latino groups. He also leaned on his alliances with running mates Council President Lilisa Mimms and Council Vice President Maritza Davila.

He burnished, too, his strong relationship with Governor Mikie Sherrill, who last week issued her formal endorsement at the Bonfire in Paterson.

Davila and Mimms both appeared to have won reelection to their at-large seats. Paula Alford was duking it out early with incumbent Councilman Forid Uddin, ultimately overtaking him to win 5,200-3,600.

From First Lady Farhanna Balgahoom Sayegh:

"Historic day for Paterson! First Mayor in our history to win 3 consecutive terms. That’s no easy feat, our residents have high expectations, and they should. We hear you. There’s still more work to do. Tonight we celebrate. Tomorrow, we get back to work. THANK YOU for the trust. Thank you for the opportunity to serve."

Councilman Mendez did not concede.

STATEMENT FROM THE ALEX MENDEZ CAMPAIGN

Yesterday’s mayoral election produced close unofficial results, with a number of absentee ballots still remaining to be counted.

While another campaign has chosen to publicly declare victory, the official election process is still ongoing and no final outcome has been certified.

With outstanding ballots still to be counted, we believe it is important to allow election officials to complete the counting process before drawing final conclusions. The Mendez campaign will continue following the remaining count closely over the coming days.

We thank every resident who participated in this election, as well as the election workers handling the remaining ballots.