Turnbach picks up endorsement from last Democrat to win in Ocean

Paul Brush, a former Toms River mayor and freeholder, has endorsed Terrance Turnbach for Ocean County Democratic chairman.

Turnbach is challenging longtime incumbent Wyatt Earp when Democrats reorganize after the June primary election.

“We have become a non-competitive political party,” said Brush.  “Ocean County no longer benefits from a healthy two-party system that offers better solutions and challenges elected officials.

Brush was elected freeholder in 1989; he and Mark Troncone are the last Democrat to win a countywide election in Ocean County.

Former South Toms River Mayor Joseph Champagne has also endorsed Turnbach, a former Toms River councilman.

“I have known Terrance for over 19 years, not days,” he said.  “He has been, invariably, a kindhearted and thoughtful person with a  remarkable dedication to public service.”

Turnbach told the New Jersey Globe that he is conducting a door-to-door campaign among county committee members.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Turnbach said.  “Democrats in Ocean County are hungry for change and new energy.  All agree that it is unacceptable that we have 10 candidates in 53 municipal races this June 7 and it is time for a change.”