Shutzer, Griffiths Win Democratic Primary in Freehold Borough

Freehold Borough Board of Education member Daniel Xavier fell short in his bid to be a Democratic nominee for Borough Council.

Xavier, incumbent Councilwoman Sharon Shutzer and Ron Griffiths squared off in the municipality's first contested primary in 37 years. With all districts reporting, Shutzer and Griffiths, running on the Freehold Borough Democratic Party line, received 398 votes, according to the Freehold Borough Clerk's Office. Xavier received 109 votes.

"I feel humbled," Shutzer said after learning the results of the primary. "I think this process has really energized our party."

Griffiths, who was also with Shutzer, when the results were announced said that he is thrilled with the results as well.

Shutzer and Griffiths will face Republicans MaryAnne Earle and incumbent Councilman John Newman in the general election. Two Borough Council seats, each for three-year terms, are up in the November vote.