an x icon - click to close the quick summary modal

quick summary

Michael Rothman

Michael Rothman is the current Mayor of Downe Township and is seeking reelection in the 2025 primary alongside running mate Larry Jordan. Rothman has previously been involved in major local infrastructure projects, such as the Fortescue and Gandy’s Beach Sewer Project, and is listed on the official township website. He has received public support in past elections from the Cumberland County Regular Republican Organization, though recent reports suggest his relationship with county leadership may now be strained.

Rothman has not maintained a campaign website or active social media presence, and he has not engaged in direct voter outreach this election cycle. Efforts to obtain updated campaign information from his ticket have gone unanswered.

Complicating his reelection bid is a growing controversy surrounding Downe Township’s decision to pay a settlement to Rothman’s stepson, Nicholas Haines, following a 2024 vehicle accident. The use of taxpayer funds in this case — and the potential conflict of interest — has triggered public demands for transparency and accountability, especially as new, unverified allegations surface about the circumstances of the crash. Township officials have not issued a public statement clarifying the matter, and key questions remain unanswered. Recent Settlement Article

Click the red x at the top of this box and then scroll down down for more in-depth information and sources.

an x icon - click to close the quick summary modal

Rating Explanation

Michael Rothman

Michael Rothman is the current Mayor of Downe Township and a sitting member of the Township Committee. He is seeking re-election and has been endorsed in the past by the Cumberland County Regular Republican Organization. Rothman’s governmental role is publicly documented through the township’s website, where he is listed as a point of contact and noted for his involvement in infrastructure projects such as the Fortescue and Gandy’s Beach Sewer Project.

However, Rothman has not maintained a public campaign presence for the 2025 election. There is no campaign website, no social media activity, and no known public events, interviews, or outreach efforts that would inform voters about his intentions for a new term. Despite an attempt to obtain updated campaign information through his running mate, no response was received.

In addition, Rothman is now at the center of a growing controversy involving a taxpayer-funded settlement paid to his stepson after a 2024 vehicle accident. The lack of a public statement or detailed explanation from Rothman or township officials has only increased concerns about transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest—especially as unverified allegations surrounding the incident continue to circulate.

Endorsements and incumbency may provide a baseline for name recognition, but they are not substitutes for open, responsive communication with the public—particularly in a climate of controversy. In light of his limited engagement and unresolved public concerns, Michael Rothman receives a low rating for transparency and accessibility in the 2025 election cycle.

Click the red x at the top of this box and then scroll down down for more in-depth information and sources.

Michael L. Rothman

Running for:
Downe Township Committee
Incumbent
Challenger

Websites

This election is on June 10th, 2025

democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot democrt donkey mascot

Transparency/Accessibility Rating: Low

Events
  • Cumberland County Regular Republican Organization Breakfast
  • Listen to party messaging and potentially meet Republican candidates Party Site
  • 04/26/25 - 8:30am
  • Mauricetown Fire Company, 9544 Noble St. Mauricetown, NJ 08349
  • RSVP: dgeno2383@gmail.com on or before that week's Tuesday
  • Cumberland County Regular Republican Organization Breakfast
  • Listen to party messaging and potentially meet Republican candidates Party Site
  • 05/10/25 - 8:30am
  • Eastlyn Golf Course, 4049 Italia Ave, Vineland, NJ, 08361
  • RSVP: dgeno2383@gmail.com on or before that week's Tuesday
  • Cumberland County Regular Republican Organization Breakfast
  • Listen to party messaging and potentially meet Republican candidates Party Site
  • 05/24/25 - 8:30am
  • Mauricetown Fire Company, 9544 Noble St. Mauricetown, NJ 08349
  • RSVP: dgeno2383@gmail.com on or before that week's Tuesday

Agenda

Based on the available information, there is no publicly documented campaign platform or detailed agenda for Michael L. Rothman’s 2025 re-election bid. While he has been involved in significant projects during his tenure, such as the Fortescue and Gandy’s Beach Sewer Project, there is no specific information outlining his future plans or initiatives for the township.

Background and Experience

Michael L. Rothman is the current Mayor of Downe Township, New Jersey, serving on the Township Committee with a term ending December 31, 2025. In his role, he oversees various aspects of township governance, including administration, public relations, economic development, tax offices, grants, and the construction department. Rothman also serves as a Class I member on the Downe Township Planning Board. ​

Beyond his official duties, Rothman is actively involved in the community, participating in the Downe Township Fire/Rescue and Dive Team.