Izzo, Hoitt Challenge Incumbents In Rumson Council GOP Primary

RUMSON, NJ - Another primary contest among Republicans is shaping up in Rumson this year.

According to unofficial filing results from the Monmouth County County Clerk, four Republican candidates are seeking election to two seats on the Rumson Borough Council in the June 4 primary election:

• John J. Conklin, III (R) Rumson First Republican Organization
• Sarah H. Pomphrey (R) Rumson First Republican Organization
• Peter S. Izzo (R) Monmouth County Republican Organization
• Stephanie L. Hoitt (R) Monmouth County Republican Organization

No one has filed to run from the Democratic party.

Conklin and Pomphrey are current members of the Borough Council whose terms are expiring.

They are being challenged by Izzo and Hoitt, who say they want to bring a "fresh perspective with a commitment to transparency" to council.

The two challengers are supported by the Monmouth County Republican Organization, headed by Shaun Golden, who is also the Monmouth County Sheriff.

The challengers have offered a news release that explains their background and positions. Their comments are included, in part, here. Look ahead to Patch for future candidate profiles, as presented last year when there was also a primary challenge. You can contact the campaign at [email protected].

"Mr. Pete Izzo and Ms. Stephanie Hoitt, both respected and active community leaders, are proud to announce their candidacies to run for Rumson Borough Council. These two highly qualified candidates have stepped forward to run for Borough Council to bring a fresh perspective with a commitment to transparency, communication, and proactive governance," the campaign said in the news release.

Their bios go on to say that "transparency is at the forefront" of their platform.

"They believe that open and honest communication is essential for building trust between elected officials and the community they serve. If elected, they are committed to ensuring clear explanations of decision-making processes and opportunities for input and engagement with residents."

They said they also want to engage in dialogues with federal, state and county leaders "to address critical initiatives for Rumson such as affordable housing mandates, rebuilding of the Oceanic and Sea Bright bridges, and family safety concerns."

Izzo serves as the chairman of the Sandy Hook Foundation and is a managing director at Merrill Lynch.

Hoitt, after a professional career in client relationship management, marketing and public relations in a variety of industries, now enjoys her role in the community, chairing events and committees for philanthropic organizations.

Both live in Rumson with their families.

In a joint statement, Izzo and Hoitt expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve their fellow citizens: “More energy, fresh ideas, and better communication are the cornerstones of our vision for Rumson. We are committed to preserving our town's rich culture while welcoming all families, old and new, with open arms."