Parker launches re-election bid for Atlantic commission

Atlantic County Commissioner Andrew Parker III (R-Egg Harbor Township) will run for re-election, he announced Tuesday night. 

His official announcement comes after he was endorsed this past weekend at the Atlantic County GOP convention. Parker, a former Egg Harbor Township committeeman, is seeking a third term on the GOP-controlled Board of Commissioners.

“I am honored and grateful to receive the unanimous support of the Atlantic County GOP,” Parker said in the release. “This endorsement reflects the collaborative work we have done together to deliver results for residents and to move Atlantic County forward with responsible, forward-thinking leadership.”

Fellow Commissioner John Risley (R-Egg Harbor Township) announced his own bid for re-election earlier this week. 

Republicans hold an 8-1 majority on the Board, but Democrats have tapped three candidates they think could flip seats in a Democratic wave year. Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s nearly 4-point victory in Atlantic County last fall — as well as the near-flip of an at-large commissioner seat — has Democrats hopeful.

Joe Giralo, Atlantic County’s Republican clerk, is also seeking re-election this year. GOP Sheriff Joseph “Tokyo Joe” O’Donoghue, who beat a Democratic incumbent in 2023, is expected to seek re-election.

Parker said the Board has made progress on education and economic development during his tenure, as well as investments in public safety.

“We have made meaningful progress, but the work continues,” he said. “From economic resilience to educational investment and emerging technology, the decisions we make today will shape Atlantic County for the next generation.”