Multiple contested countywide primaries in Morris

Contentious primaries could be coming to Morris County, as three candidates seek the nod for surrogate and as incumbent freeholders face a primary challenge from a slate led by Donald Dinsmore, a former chief counsel for the Assembly Republicans.

Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll, Freeholder Heather Darling and Isabella Alfano, the corresponding secretary of the Parsippany Republicans, are vying for the opportunity to replace Surrogate John Pecoraro, who is not seeking re-election after more than 20 years in office.

Kathy Dailey, who in late March told the New Jersey Globe she had her surrogate petitions ready to go, did not enter the race.

Alfano’s committee on vacancies includes Parsippany GOP chairman Louis Valori, a close ally of Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Morris County Republican chairman Ron DeFilippis.

Mendham attorney Michael Thompson was the only Democrat to file for surrogate.

Incumbent freeholders Doug Cabana, Thomas Mastrangelo and Kathy DeFillippo face a primary challenge from Dinsmore, William Felegi and former Pequannock mayor Cathy Winterfield.

Whichever slate wins that race will face off against the Democratic challengers Cara Parmigiani, David Timpanaro and Cary Amaro.