Berger Leads In Howell Mayor Race: Unofficial Results

HOWELL, NJ - Democrat Theresa Berger is leading in the Howell Township Mayoral race, according to unofficial results from the Monmouth County Clerk's Office.

Two candidates are vying for the coveted seat this year: incumbent mayor and Democrat Dr. Theresa Berger and Republican Suzanne M. Brennan.

10 p.m., Nov. 9 vote count:

THERESA BERGER: 53.60%, 15,939 votes

SUZANNE M. BRENNAN: 45.99%, 13,676 votes

The newly-chosen mayor will also serve on the five-person Howell Township Council and run council meetings.

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Berger, a resident of the township for over 20 years, is currently the mayor of Howell and is seeking a second four-year term. She was the first Democrat to take office in Howell in over 15 years when she took oath in January 2017. She serves as the president and CEO of Ocean Health Initiatives, manages 200 Medical and Administration Employees. She previously served as a chair for the New Jersey Primary Care Association from 2014 to 2019.

Brennan, a 24-year resident of Howell and mother of three, is a practicing attorney and has previously served twice on the Howell K-8 School District Board of Education. She previously held an appointment as Howell's municipal court public defender. She currently serves as a Brookdale Community College trustee.

"It takes committed leaders to ensure that the local government is meeting its responsibilities to the residents," Brennan told Patch last month. "It takes experienced leaders who know how to plan, prepare, and then pivot if circumstances change. It takes dedicated leaders who are willing to do the hard work and give all the time necessary to get the job done. I have the experience, the passion and the work ethic needed to be an effective and engaged mayor."

Since the change to this year's election was announced by Gov. Phil Murphy because of the coronavirus, there have been many questions about how the process will work.

Every the ballot sent through the mail had to be postmarked by Nov. 3. It must be received by your county's election boards by 8 p.m. on Nov. 10.

"Every vote should be safe. Every vote should be secure. Every vote should be counted," Murphy said of the process.

For full coverage of the 2020 election in New Jersey, go here: New Jersey Elections 2020

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