Bernards Township Democrats Endorse Duarte McCarthy, Bannan for Township Committee

The candidates will focus on responsible development, infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life in the township.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 5:18pm

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The Bernards Township Democratic Committee has endorsed Ana Duarte McCarthy and Joan Bannan as its candidates for two three-year terms on the Bernards Township Committee in the November election. Duarte McCarthy is the township's current mayor, while Bannan previously served on the Township Committee after being elected in 2019.

Why it matters

The election for seats on the Bernards Township Committee is an important local political race that will determine the leadership and priorities for the township over the next three years. Bernards Township is a community of around 27,000 residents located in Somerset County, New Jersey.

The details

Duarte McCarthy, who has served on the Township Committee since 2023, said she hopes to continue the committee's collaborative work addressing local priorities such as fiscal responsibility, public safety, and economic development. Bannan, a practicing attorney, previously served on the Township Committee from 2019 to 2022 and worked on initiatives including a shared municipal court services agreement and improvements to the township's website.

  • The election for seats on the Bernards Township Committee will take place in November 2026.

The players

Ana Duarte McCarthy

The township's current mayor, first elected to the Township Committee in 2023. She has served as a liaison to several local boards and committees and her priorities include fiscal responsibility, public safety, and economic development.

Joan Bannan

A practicing attorney who previously served on the Township Committee after being elected in 2019. She has been involved in several municipal boards and committees and emphasized fiscal oversight and efforts to maintain the township's tradition of remaining debt-free.

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What they’re saying

“The Township Committee is working together collaboratively, and in good faith, to provide all our residents with the best possible outcomes.”

— Ana Duarte McCarthy, Mayor

“I am excited to run with Ana, who cares deeply about our town, and for the opportunity to serve all residents of our community once again.”

— Joan Bannan, Candidate for Township Committee

What’s next

The election for seats on the Bernards Township Committee will take place in November 2026.

The takeaway

This local election in Bernards Township will be an important opportunity for residents to choose leaders who will guide the community's development, infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life initiatives over the next three years.