Engel wins at-large Essex commissioner nomination in win for progressives; McGrath, Richardson, and Yasin win rest of no
In an upset win for progressives, Former Maplewood Deputy Mayor Deborah Engel secured a Democratic nomination for an at-large Essex County Board of Commissioners seat despite not earning the party’s backing, the New Jersey Globe projects.
Verona Councilwoman Christine McGrath, West Orange Democratic Municipal Chairman Abdur Yasin, Engel, and incumbent Wayne Richardson secured the four at-large nominations for the Board of Commissioners. Livingston Mayor Shawn Klein, who had the backing of the Essex County Democratic Organization, fell short, as did former Newark Public Schools Advisory Board member Marques-Aquil Lewis.
As of 10:17 p.m., McGrath led with 38,543 votes, and Yasin followed with 32,657. Engel has received 31,211, and Richardson holds fourth place with 30,549. Klein trails with 28,773, and Lewis currently sits last with 19,444.
Engel spent little on the race, but grassroots support, similar to the progressive energy that helped Rep. Analilia Mejia cross the finish line in the 11th congressional district, made the difference. Engel had the endorsement of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, as did Lewis. Perhaps more importantly, she had the support of South Orange Mayor Sheena Collum, a progressive powerhouse.
https://newjerseyglobe.com/campaigns/engel-wins-at-large-essex-commissioner-nomination-in-win-for-progressives-mcgrath-richardson-and-yasin-win-rest-of-nominations/