Once people get a foothold in politics, they tend to stay around – even when they lose.

Michael Soriano’s term as Parsippany mayor ended at midnight Dec. 31. But on Jan. 2, a mere two days later, Soriano was named to the state’s Democratic Committee. He was so chosen by Morris County Democrats to replace Phillp Sellinger who has been named U.S. Attorney for New Jersey.

The state committee hardly has the visibility of being mayor of Morris County’s largest town, but it keeps Soriano on the political circuit. To get the post, he beat out James Plaisted of Boonton and T.C. McCourt of Dover, who ran last year for county commissioner.

As for Soriano’s replacement in Parsippany, Jamie Barberio took the oath of office as mayor at the traditional time of noon on Jan.1. He was sworn in by Ann Grossi, the county clerk.

The “new” mayor said he had been waiting four years for that moment. That was a reference to Barberio’s loss four years ago – to Soriano.

Barberio pledged to bring back “Pride in Parsippany,” a phrase made famous about three decades ago by then-mayor Frank Priore.

Republicans are overjoyed to have “reclaimed” Parsippany, so many local GOP celebrities attended Barberio’s swearing in and a reception afterwards.

That roster included state Sen. Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Jay Webber, outgoing Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce and incoming Assemblyman Christian Barranco. All are from District 26.

Sheriff James Gannon, who is up for reelection this year, was there, as were at least three of the candidates seeking the Republican congressional nod in CD-11 – Larry Casha, Paul DeGroot and Tayfun Selen.