West Windsor Breaks 10,000 Voter Turnout Record in Historic Election Year

by Dan Weiss, West Windsor Township Council Member

For the first time in its history, West Windsor saw more than 10,000 residents cast ballots in a gubernatorial election year. This record turnout demonstrates a growing commitment among residents to participate in shaping our state, county, and township’s future.

Municipal Election: A Tight Race and Strong Grassroots Energy

In the mayor and council race, the two-term incumbent mayor Hemant Marathe and four-term incumbent council member Linda Geevers were re-elected by a margin of approximately 300 votes, representing about 3 percent of the nearly 10,000 total ballots cast.  Their running mate, Joe Charles, who is brand new to local government, won the remaining open seat by a slim margin as well.

The West Windsor Together slate, led by Sujit Singh for Mayor, with Ajay Tomar and Andrew Winters for Council, entered the race in August, and mounted an energetic challenge that nearly unseated the incumbents. Their campaign emphasized Mindful Community Development, Infrastructure Investment, Environmental Stewardship, Community Wellness, Keeping Taxes Stable, and Transparent Governance.

The team knocked on nearly 6,000 doors, covering over 11,000 residents, connecting with over 6,000 voters, and hosted more than 40 meet-and-greet events across West Windsor. Although the incumbents ultimately held their seats, the closeness of the race reflected a clear call from residents for greater accountability and collaboration.

The high level of resident engagement throughout this election was one of its most encouraging outcomes. Even with the challengers falling short, their message and energy resonated deeply across neighborhoods and demographics. Many of these community leaders, volunteers, and first-time participants are expected to remain active in township discussions and civic life. Their continued involvement will help strengthen transparency, elevate diverse perspectives, and ensure that progress and sound decision making remain at the center of West Windsor’s path forward.

Governor’s Race: Mikie Sherrill Wins Statewide

In the statewide election for Governor, Mikie Sherrill secured a decisive victory over Republican Jack Ciattarelli, extending Democratic leadership in New Jersey for a third consecutive term.

This marks the first time since 1961 that one party has won three consecutive gubernatorial terms. Sherrill’s campaign focused on competent government, affordability, and infrastructure investment, which are priorities that closely align with the needs of Mercer County municipalities, including West Windsor.

County, Legislative, and Board of Education Results

• Legislative District 15 Assembly: Both incumbents, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Anthony Verrelli were re-elected in an uncontested race. In the current legislative session, Democrats hold 52 of the 80 seats. In the Tuesday election, Democrats have so far picked up three more, with a decisive sweep of the 21st District, which had been held by Republicans for more than three decades, and by flipping a seat in the 8th District in Burlington County that has had split representation since January 2024.

  
  

  The wins give Democrats 55 members, considered a veto-proof majority because it takes two-thirds of the Assembly to override a gubernatorial veto. It’s not likely the party will need that number, given the incoming governor is Democrat Mikie Sherrill, currently serving in the U.S. House of Representatives.

  
  

• Mercer County Clerk and Commissioners: The Democratic slate swept all countywide offices by massive margins: Paula Sollami Covello for Clerk, and Nina Melker and Cathleen Lewis for Commissioner.

  
  

• WW-P Board of Education: The race was uncontested, with Graelynn McKeown retaining her seat, and Sharon DiSebastian securing the vacant seat.

These results reflect steady Democratic strength throughout Mercer County and highlight opportunities for stronger coordination between local and county leadership on infrastructure and environmental initiatives.

What This Means for West Windsor

1. Historic Civic Engagement — Surpassing 10,000 voters confirms that residents are highly motivated to participate in local decisions.

2. A More Competitive Local Landscape — The narrow 3 percent margin signals a township ready for new voices and ideas.

3. Grassroots Leadership Matters — Door-to-door organizing remains the most effective way to connect with residents.

4. Shared Responsibility for Results — High turnout brings higher expectations. Local government must deliver on transparency, infrastructure, and community wellness.

5. Partnership with State and County Leaders — With a new governor and aligned county leadership, West Windsor has new opportunities for collaboration on funding and policy.

Looking Forward

The 2025 election has changed the tone of civic life in West Windsor. Residents expect partnership, accountability, and results. As a Council Member, I see this moment as both a challenge and an invitation to listen closely, act boldly, and ensure our township remains a place defined by thoughtful growth, sustainability, and community care.