CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — The Cape May County Republican Organization (CapeGOP) announced a shift in its leadership slate for the 2026 election cycle.
Following the Jan. 7 deadline for letters of intent, Chairman Michael Donohue informed party leadership that Patrick Rosenello and Curtis Bashaw have officially stepped forward to run for the Board of County Commissioners.
The announcement comes as two dedicated incumbents prepare for new chapters.
Commissioner Will Morey will conclude his 15-year tenure at the end of the year. Morey, who originally intended to retire after 12 years of service, extended his commitment to ensure a smooth transition to a capable successor.
Additionally, Commissioner Melanie Collette has announced she will not seek re-election to focus on her rapidly expanding media career and her growing portfolio with Newsmax and other national outlets.
“We have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to the talent in our ranks,” Donohue said. “To have Patrick Rosenello and Curtis Bashaw step into the arena together is a game-changer for Cape May County. These are proven leaders who have already shaped the face of our community.”
— Curtis Bashaw: A visionary leader in the hospitality industry whose work helped transform Cape May into a year-round destination. Bashaw gained national attention during his 2024 U.S. Senate campaign, in which he achieved one of the closest statewide margins for a Republican in recent New Jersey history.
— Patrick Rosenello: A cornerstone of CapeGOP with over two decades of local government experience, Rosenello recently concluded a 12-year term as mayor of North Wildwood. He is widely recognized for his private-sector success in tourism and his advocacy for the county’s iconic boardwalks, beaches and workforce.
“As we look to the future, the energy behind the Rosenello-Bashaw ticket is a testament to the strength and unity of CapeGOP,” Donohue said.
Reorganization meeting
An overflow crowd of family, supporters, and community leaders filled the Cape May County Administration Building on Jan. 6 as the Board of County Commissioners held its annual reorganization meeting.
Commissioners Andrew Bulakowski Bobby Barr, both re-lected in November, were sworn in to new three-year terms during a ceremony highlighted by remarks from state and federal officials.
U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew administered the oath of office to Barr, a longtime Ocean City leader who first joined the board in 2023 after serving as Ocean City Council president.
“Serving Cape May County is the greatest honor of my life,” Barr said following his swearing-in. “In 2026, I’ll stay focused on protecting our shore communities, supporting economic growth and investing in the people who make Cape May County strong.”
Bulakowski, first elected in 2022 to fill the seat previously held by former director Jerry Thornton, took his oath administered by Michael J. Donohue, CapeGOP chairman and former Superior Court judge.
“I’m proud to continue serving the residents of Cape May County and deeply honored to begin my second term,” Bulakowski said. “We have real opportunities this year to continue to improve the lives of county residents. I’m excited to keep our county moving forward by prioritizing responsible spending, creating well-paying jobs, continued growth in economic development and spearheading projects that protect the environment and preserve recreational opportunities for our residents and visitors.”
Following the swearing-in, the board unanimously selected Commissioner Leonard C. Desiderio to continue serving as director for 2026. Bulakowski will remain vice director.
“Cape May County is blessed with dedicated public servants who care deeply about protecting what is special in our communities,” Desiderio said. “I appreciate the confidence of my colleagues and look forward to continuing our shared mission: keeping Cape May County safe, prosperous, family-friendly and the best place to live and visit in New Jersey.”
During the session, commissioners approved organizational resolutions assigning departmental oversight, confirming liaison roles to county agencies and boards and adopting procedures for the new year. Statements were delivered by Barr, Collette, Bulakowski, Morey and Desiderio.