Democrats won’t compete in Rockaway

Rockaway Township Democrats will not nominate a candidate for mayor in the November special election, according to a source who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The Republican candidate, Councilman Michael Puzio endorsed Democrat Mikie Sherrill for Congress last month.  He won the backing of the local GOP organization on Tuesday night, defeating former Councilman Paul Minenna by a 20-18 vote.

The special election was caused by the unexpected death of Mayor Michael Dachisen in August at age 58.

Democrats have not won a mayoral race in Rockaway since Frank Maddelini last won in 1991.