NJ: Democratic mayor in Burlington county switches parties, will seek re-election as a Republican
Riverside Mayor Mike Higgins announced that he has switched parties and will seek re-election as a Republican, flipping the township committee to a 3-2 Republican majority.
The move came after local Democrats signaled that they would not support his bid for re-election after disagreements over some appointments.
“I no longer recognize the Democratic party that I signed up for,” said Higgins. “I’m trying to make my community a better place and have been disappointed at the resistance I have faced and the pressure I’ve felt to tow their party line. The Democratic leaders deserted me, and I’m thankful for the Burlington County Republican Party for accepting me and accepting my need to be able to vote for what I feel is right.”
Now he’ll run with Christy Veasy, a newcomer. Democrat Corey Kimble is also up this year.
Burlington County GOP Chairman Sean Earlen called Higgins a “dedicated public servant.”
“We’re proud to have a big tent party that welcomes all, including – and especially – former Democrats who are looking for a more welcoming home,” Earlen said.
Higgins will join another Democrat-turned-Republican on the November ballot. Jim Fazzone, the former Democratic mayor of Burlington City and one of the Democrats who endorsed Republican Gov. Chris Christie in 2013, is the GOP candidate for county commissioner.
https://newjerseyglobe.com/local/democratic-mayor-in-burlington-county-switches-parties-will-see-re-election-as-a-republican/
