Based on currently available information, Sean Pignatelli remains the only candidate in the Downe Township race offering a clear, issue-driven public platform with direct voter engagement. Additional background is available on his opponents: Larry Jordan has an accessible professional history and is running on a ticket with incumbent Mayor Michael Rothman; Trevor Spiotto is known for community volunteering and works as a housing inspector in Millville; and Rothman has been involved in township-level infrastructure projects.

That said, none of the three have released campaign platforms, held candidate events, or participated in the public voter outreach process. Notably, while a phone conversation with Larry Jordan confirmed he would speak with Rothman about participating, no follow-up occurred, potentially signaling a deliberate choice not to engage. Rothman’s campaign is also now under heightened scrutiny due to a taxpayer-funded settlement paid to his stepson — a case raising serious concerns about conflict of interest and transparency.

A brief review of our methods: We send snail mail and emails to the candidates via addresses they provided to the county clerk. We regularly attend political meetings and campaign events. We conduct thorough online research of all candidates. We have also formally requested more cooperation from county officials during public commissioner meetings. Additionally, we’ve written to all state legislators encouraging changes to New Jersey election law to ensure counties help facilitate this process for voters.