Morristown's Dougherty Eyes County Dem Committee Leadership Spot

Chairman could become Chairwoman for Morris County Democrats this year.

That’s because Mary Dougherty, the current Morris County Democratic Committee vice chairwoman is looking to become the group’s first-ever female leader.

As Primary Election season marches toward the June 3 vote, Dougherty – whose husband, Tim, is Morristown’s mayor – is looking to fill the seat being left vacant by current chairman Lew Candura, who has decided not to run for re-election.

Dougherty has served as the Morristown Democratic Committee chairwoman for the past eight years.

Despite her experience, Dougherty isn’t shying away from any political endorsements. The Democratic Task Force of the Women’s Political Caucus of New Jersey announced Tuesday it was supporting Dougherty in her bid for the leadership role.

“Women make up over half of the population of New Jersey, yet only one female serves as leader among the 21 Democratic county committees,” said Lisa Chapland, co-chairwoman of the Democratic Task Force in a statement. “It’s time to break the glass ceiling in county leadership, particularly in Morris County."

Peg Schaffer of Somerset County and Elizabeth Muoio of Mercer County are the only female Democratic Committee chairs in the state.

“I became interested in public service to make a difference in the community,” said Dougherty in the statement. “I hope to bring a new energy and more excitement to all of the 39 municipalities in Morris County and make certain that all committee voices are heard.”

Editor's Note: A previous version of this article stated only one woman in New Jersey was head of her respective county's Democratic Committee.