Republicans will select the New Jersey GOP’s next chair in a Jan. 5 meeting, according to a notice sent to state committee members.
After the crushing defeat of Jack Ciattarelli in November’s gubernatorial election, incumbent Chairman Glenn Paulsen announced he would step down at the end of the year. The announcement also stated that Vice Chair Darlene Shotmeyer will also resign at the end of the year, launching a secondary race for that seat.
Four candidates have launched campaigns to succeed Paulsen: Gloucester County Commissioner Nick DeSilvio, Monmouth County Clerk Christine Hanlon, former congressional candidate and consultant Rosemary Becchi, and former Bogota Mayor and conservative activist Steve Lonegan. Candidates have until Dec. 22 to file a letter of intent.
Shotmeyer, a Bergen County Republican, first became vice chair in 2021. Lynda Pagliughi had held the seat for the 20 years prior to Shotmeyer.
At the meeting, Secretary Michelle Purdy will preside as interim chair.
Kate Gibbs will also depart as executive director.
