Republicans secure Salem freeholder board

Republicans have regained control of the Salem County Board of Chosen Freeholders after Freeholder Melissa DeCastro, who jumped to the Democratic party last year, lost her reelection bid.

Three-term incumbent Ben Laury 12,383 votes, or about 28%, and 11,432 voters, about 25%, cast their ballots for political newcomer Mickey Ostrum, an obstetrician,

DeCastro got 10,259 votes, about 23%, and Democratic challenger Jesse Stemberger received 9,379 votes, roughly 21%.

The wins give Republicans a 4-1 majority on the board.

This year’s loss in a freeholder race is Stemberger’s second in as many years.