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Primary Election:
June 2, 2026 From 6:00 A.M. - 8:00 p.m.
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Democrats For Rutherford Borough Council
A Stronger Rutherford Starts Here.
Rutherford deserves leaders who are prepared, accountable, and present—leaders who show up, do the work, and earn your trust.
Dr. Stephanie McGowan and Jarrod Schaeffer are committed to Rutherford’s future—for families who’ve been here for generations and families just getting started—bringing steady, practical leadership to Borough Council.
Re-Elect
Stephanie
McGowan
Dr. Stephanie McGowan is a lifelong Rutherford resident and Council leader delivering steady results, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive community progress.
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Elected four times to Borough Council; six years as Council President
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Served as Finance Chairwoman and liaison to key Borough boards and committees
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A consistent advocate for accessibility and inclusion for all residents
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Doctorate from Fordham University in Management, Leadership & Policy
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Chairwoman, NJ Democratic State Committee Disabilities Caucus; 2025 DNC Delegate representing NJ Districts 36 & 38
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Proud wife to Jeff and mom to Amelia & Jeffie
Elect
Jarrod
Schaeffer
Jarrod Schaeffer is a former federal prosecutor and civil rights commissioner bringing integrity, energy, and practical problem-solving to Council.
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Former federal prosecutor in Manhattan; now a private attorney
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Rutherford Civil Rights Commissioner
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Rutherford Recreation Volunteer Soccer Coach
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Graduate of Boston University School of Law and Cornell University
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Honored as a NYC & NYS “40 Under 40 Rising Stars” (2025)
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Proud husband to Chris Christiana
3 Ways to Vote
Make a Plan to Vote in the New Jersey PrimaRy Election
Vote By Mail
May 26, 2026:
Deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot by mail.
June 1, 2026:
Deadline to apply in person (up to 3:00 p.m.).
June 2, 2026:
Return your ballot by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day
Return via authorized Drop Box at Rutherford Borough Hall (176 Park Avenue) or to one of the other 18 Election Drop Boxes located throughout the county—don’t wait.
Early In-Person
May 26 - May 31, 2026:
Locally at the Wood-Ridge Senior Center (495 Highland Avenue)
Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
ELECTION DAY
TUESDAY, JUNE 2ND, 2026
Polls open 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Unsure about what district you’re in? Call the Borough Clerk's Office at 201-460-3001.
Three Ways to Vote
Make a Plan to Vote in the NJ Primary Election
