Dems To Take Control Of Bridgewater Council After 37 Years, Latest Tally Says

BRIDGEWATER, NJ ? Republicans have remained in control of the Bridgewater Township Council for the past 37 years. Now, it appears Democrats will break this hold, according to unofficial results.

As of Tuesday night, Democrats Joan Geiger received 9,982 votes, Andrew Bucko received 9,831 votes, and Ridwana Isla received 9,559 votes.

This is ahead of longtime incumbents Allen Kurdyla with 8,884 votes and Filipe Pedroso with 8,685 votes, and newcomer and Mayor Matthew Moench's sister, Megan Moench, with 8,350 votes.

This lead could mean that the Democrats will take over three of the five seats on the Township Council.

"This was a huge team effort," said Bucko. "I want to thank everyone who made phone calls, knocked on doors, gave money, and supported our campaign in so many other ways to make this a success. I am looking forward to getting to work for the people of Bridgewater."

"I am so proud of this campaign and everyone who helped make it a success," Ridwana Isla said. "I am honored to be the first representative from the South Asian community to sit on this Township Council, and we should all celebrate that the Council will finally look like the people it represents."

"I have said all year that 37 is the charm," said Joan Geiger. "Running for Township Council with Andrew, Ridwana, and the rest of this team has been an incredible experience. I have met thousands of residents over the course of this campaign, and I am honored to give them a voice on the Township Council. The enthusiasm and demand for change in town is clear, and now it is our responsibility to start delivering for residents."

The Bridgewater Democratic Committee said that Bucko, Isla, and Geiger will begin work on their transition team as they prepare to take control of the Bridgewater Township Council.

"The three candidates would like to thank Filipe Pedroso and Allen Kurdyla for their years of service to the Township Council," according to the Committee's release.

Republicans Moench and Pedroso both shared their statements on the outcome.

"It was an honor to run for council in the town I grew up in. I appreciate all of the support from our residents, my friends, my family and especially my son Logan. Congratulations to the winners and I wish them all the best," said Moench.

Pedroso shared his congratulations to the Democrats

"Second - THANK YOU to my supporters, volunteers and team, I?m humbled by all. Third - For 14 years, EVERY vote and action I?ve ever done was for a better Bridgewater and for our resident: For lower taxes while assuring essential services, protecting our community and quality of life, and making sure our Bridgewater is safe. It?s been an honor to serve the township I grew up in and have loved all my life. I?m not going anywhere ? I?ll stay active and continue working for our amazing community," said Pedroso.

Kurdyla did not immediately respond to Patch's request for comment.

According to Somerset County, 100 percent of districts are reporting for Bridgewater. However, these results remain unofficial until all mail-in and provisional ballots are counted. A final certification of votes will be on Nov. 19.

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