MORRISTOWN, N.J. — The Morris County Democratic Committee voted overwhelmingly on March 20, 2026, to remove all 24 members of the Dover Democratic Municipal Committee, citing violations of party bylaws including cross-party endorsements of Republican candidates. According to party officials, 408 of 608 eligible committee members participated in the 48-hour vote that began March 17, with 96% supporting removal — far exceeding the two-thirds majority required by MCDC bylaws. Each removal was considered and voted on individually, and no members of the Dover committee chose to sign up for a hearing before the Executive Board.

The removal followed months of escalating tension that began in December 2025, when MCDC Chair Darcy Draeger demanded the resignation of Mayor James Dodd and other committee members. Dover Democrats had endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli over Democrat Mikie Sherrill in the 2025 gubernatorial race. The municipal committee also promoted Republican Assemblyman Christian Barranco over Democratic primary winners Marisa Sweeney and Steve Pylypchuk, and backed write-in candidates over Democratic primary winners Daniella Mendez, Judy Rugg, and Christopher Almada. Committee officials cited the creation and distribution of materials targeting Mendez that were described as "offensive, intimidating, and demeaning," violating the party's anti-harassment policy.

"The bylaws exist to ensure all members support Democratic candidates and uphold the values of the Democratic Party," Draeger stated in the March 20, 2026 announcement. "This decision was not made lightly, but it was necessary to protect the integrity of the Morris County Democratic Committee." The action applies solely to unpaid party committee positions and does not affect any elected public offices held by the individuals. Draeger has publicly referred to Dodd as a "Dodd-o-crat."

Dodd had refused to resign in December 2025, issuing a statement that "political parties do not own elected committee members, nor do they have the authority to silence dissent or punish independent thought." He characterized the Democratic Party as demonstrating "increasing intolerance for independent thought" and using "coercion to enforce conformity." Dodd's conflict with county leadership dates back years. He won the Democratic primary for mayor in June 2023 after losing to Carolyn Blackman in 2019 and running as an independent. He was also a member of the 2018 Dover First slate that swept the town council elections.

The new 24-member Dover Democratic Municipal Committee appointed by Draeger includes sitting Council Members Sandra Wittner, Daniella Mendez, Judy Rugg, and Chris Almada, plus former Mayor Blackman.

"This decisive vote is a mandate and a message: Those who seek to use the Democratic Party for their own personal gain while actively working to undermine its mission will be held accountable," Wittner said. Mendez added: "With the decisive action taken by the Morris County Democratic Committee, we have a real opportunity to rebuild our local party on a foundation of trust, unity, and shared values." A reorganization meeting for the new committee is scheduled for March 23, 2026.

The Dover conflict reflects broader tensions within the Morris County Democratic Party, where Dodd's willingness to cross party lines — including his 2013 endorsement of Republican Chris Christie — has repeatedly put him at odds with leadership. While Dodd frames his actions as independent thinking, party officials characterize them as violations of basic membership obligations. The March 20 removal represents one of the most significant enforcement actions by the MCDC in recent years, effectively purging an entire municipal committee and replacing it with leadership aligned with county party priorities.

Sources:

• New Jersey Globe (March 20, 2026)

• InsiderNJ

• Daily Record

 MCDC Website, March 2, 2026 — Convention, Screening Committee

 InsiderNJ (MCDC Press Release), March 20, 2026 — Draeger quotes

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