Somerset County Commissioner Primary Candidate: Amber Murad

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — Somerset County's preliminary election on June 8 has four candidates running for two open seats on the Board of County Commissioners. Amber Murad, 32, is one of two Republican candidates running.

Murad currently serves as a Watchung Board of Education Member. She is married with two children and has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Maryland University College.

Murad is running alongside Michael Kirsh for county commissioner.

Are you running for office in Somerset County? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at alexis.tarrazi@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements.

Amber Murad

Campaign website

www.somersetcountygop.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

My parents were immigrants who worked hard to support us. They taught me not to take anything for granted, and I have seen first-hand the struggles they faced to build a small business and provide for our family. Last year has been a struggle for many and I know the effects that financial challenges can have on a family's health and well-being. I want to be a voice for everyone. I did not take this decision lightly, as my current commitment to the Board of Education and Watchung is dear to me, but seeing how many small and large businesses are struggling in our county during these unprecedented times, it is no longer an option and I want to help my county.

The single most pressing issue facing our County is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The county has 21 municipalities, but the county officials have failed to understand their individual needs. As I get to know the elected officials and residents in the county during our campaign Michael and I are listening to our residents and their needs. The past year has changed the way of life for many in our County and as we head into the new normal it is critical that we start planning for 2030 now to be a more successful county.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

We live in a state that has created a large tax burden on our residents and I believe we need to work towards keeping our taxes low and continue to create shared services opportunities when feasible. It is imperative that we elect candidates, who are eager to represent the county and focus on the issues that are of the greatest importance to our residents.

Somerset County deserves strong and principled voices. We need to focus on creating a county where business owners can operate successfully in a post-pandemic world. Both residents and businesses need to know our streets are safe, well maintained, with low taxes and plenty of growth with business opportunities for all.

As a daughter of immigrants who owned a small business, this is near and dear to my heart. I know the effect businesses face when our elected officials make decisions that favor only a few. I want to represent everyone equally regardless of political affiliation, I believe in finding solutions when others cannot find them.

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