Interested in serving on Cranbury’s Township Committee? We are currently looking for local Democrats who want to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors and contribute to our diverse and wonderful community of Cranbury. The Township Committee is made up of five members each serving three-year terms. The members meet bi-weekly to oversee all the town operations. In a small town like ours, members often get to know the majority of residents making it easier to address the needs of their neighbors in a direct and meaningful way.
If you are interested, we will be glad to meet with you to talk about your goals and ours and see if they align. If the CDC votes to endorse your candidacy we will then do all we can to help you get elected. If you are new to politics, we will teach you the basics and be there for support every step of the way. We can help you create campaign materials, learn to canvass, prepare you for events, and much more. Reach out to us at cranburydems@gmail.com if you think running for local office might be right for you.
Wondering what we look for in a candidate? We are committed to transparency and are happy to share our policy:
Primary criteria for endorsement – Beyond the fundamental requirements that candidates be registered members of the Democratic party and reside in the municipality, CDC members work together to evaluate each candidate based on a wide variety of criteria which include:
- Behavior and Party Values – Of primary importance in the selection of a candidate for endorsement is their commitment to the core values of the Democratic Party which include but are not limited to:
- Emphasis on inclusivity and outreach to all groups
- Commitment to the promotion of health and safety of all populations,
- Demonstration of principled leadership
- Support for marginalized and vulnerable populations
- Recognition of the connection between human well-being and the health of the natural environment and environmental safety
- Concern for economic fairness and removal of barriers to opportunity
- Incumbency – Incumbency is given significant weight but does not automatically confer party line endorsement. Incumbents with a record of success in carrying out the duties of the Committee are given highest preference for endorsement should they choose to run for an additional term.
- Communication Skills – Candidates can build confidence in public speaking and presentation but it is crucial that they be able to present their ideas to their constituents clearly. Thus, the CDC seeks out confident communicators.
- Experience and Service – Participation on any township committee, commission or board is also given significant weight in determining who should receive the CDC’s endorsement. Participation in local civic and faith based groups is also valued. Current or more recent participation is given stronger weight.
- Local Business Owner/Employee – Local business owners and their employees have particular experience interacting with residents that requires patience, understanding of needs, willingness to listen, and the ability to cross lines between different groups with ease. These are valuable qualities in a candidate.
- Length of Residency – The length of time a person has lived in Cranbury is given consideration because it corresponds to the amount of opportunity the person has had to participate in the life of the town and get to know its governance structure, meet residents, and learn more about how the town functions.
Secondary criteria – Other factors that shall be given consideration in determining party endorsement include:
- Evidence of participation in any community service (e.g. working in soup kitchens, serving the elderly, offering assistance to youth, volunteering time to help vulnerable populations).
- Service in other organizations that enhance communities (e.g. Places of worship, Food pantry, Habitat for Humanity, Scouts).
- Service to elected Democratic office in another municipality (or state).
- Exhibition of effort to participate in local governance and support the public good.
- Effectiveness in advancing the goals and values of the party in other venues.