Published in Echoes-Sentinel Oct 25, 2026 TO THE EDITOR: As Warren voters go to the polls this November, we have the opportunity to choose two leaders, Will DiGrande and Sam Holden, who will bring new perspectives and valuable experience to our Township Committee. The growth that Warren has experienced in recent years presents challenges and opportunities. From a public safety standpoint, we must address traffic issues, storm water management, and needed improvements to our public information systems. We require proactive problem solvers and leaders who have experience delivering results for residents. Will and Sam both have the experience to help us meet these challenges. Will has worked in constituent services at both the state and federal levels. As Outreach Manager in the 10th Congressional district, Will has developed a proven track record of delivering for New Jersey residents. As a member of the Warren Planning Board, he has already served our community. As a member of the Township Committee, he will utilize his government expertise to capitalize on grant opportunities and county wide shared service agreements, saving taxpayer dollars and delivering results. As a Project Manager and efficiency specialist at a medical device manufacturer, Sam’s focus is on streamlining production to minimize costs and meet sustainability goals. His results-driven perspective, gained in private sector manufacturing, is directly transferable to public service. Sam holds a master’s degree in engineering management and is uniquely qualified to tackle our infrastructure challenges. A father of two, Sam is committed to making life better for all residents, of all generations. I encourage all Warren residents to vote for Will DiGrande and Sam Holden for Township Committee. Patti O’Byrne Roberts Road Warren Twp.
Published in Echoes-Sentinel Oct 19, 2026 TO THE EDITOR: Upcoming elections encourage each of us to reflect on our township committee’s annual accomplishments and priorities combined with the state of our economy. In addition, affordability causes us to consider what we want versus what we need. As we all know, unfortunately the two are not always the same. Recently, the township committee purchased Round Top, a private swimming club, for $1.05 million. Even though we have been told the taxpayers will not incur the expense of maintaining or developing the property, presently there is no plan in place for its future use. At the same time, we have been warned repeatedly of the need to prioritize emergency services in our town. Members of our volunteer fire department warn us of the need to replace and maintain old equipment rather than simply repairing equipment after it breaks down and is not available for use in emergencies. While our increase in local population requires reconfiguring our school district, attention should also be directed on prioritizing safety for all residents. Fortunately, Will DiGrande and Sam Holden understand the need for safety and quality of life issues. They recognize the changes occurring in our community and the need to put safety first. Their priority is not necessarily what we want, but more importantly what we need. Based on Will’s and Sam’s career experience, both are most capable of working collaboratively on major projects to ensure Warren’s successful future. They will make the right decisions regarding budget, safety, and open space, among other issues. Therefore, I ask you to vote for Will DiGrande and Sam Holden as they work for a better future for our community. Please vote on Nov. 3. KIMBERLY DUNN-MEYNELL Berkshire Drive Warren Twp.
Trenton, NJ – New Jersey Young Democrats (NJYD) is proud to endorse 40 young Democratic candidates through the age of 40 and support 48 candidates ages 41 and over for the 2026 election cycle. NJYD endorsements were open to all Democratic candidates in good standing through the age of 40. In order to qualify, eligible candidates were required to complete an endorsement application and submit by September 1st, after which the candidates were closely vetted. Each year, NJYD also supports Democratic candidates ages 41 and over who are in good standing and complete NJYD’s support application by the deadline. All candidates then undergo a rigorous review process. “The New Jersey Young Democrats is committed to building a future where young people are not simply invited to participate, but are leading, organizing, and serving in every corner of our state. We are proud to support candidates and leaders who reflect the diversity, energy, and priorities of New Jersey’s next generation. This year, I’m calling on young people across New Jersey to make our voices impossible to ignore. Organize in your communities, support leaders who share your vision, run for office, and most importantly, make your voice heard at the ballot box. Our generation has the power to shape what comes next, and 2026 is our opportunity to lead,” stated NJYD President Fatima Heyward. New Jersey Young Democrats is proud to endorse the following candidates: LaMonica McIver for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-10 Rachel Peace for U.S. House of Representative, NJ-04 Rebecca Bennett for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-07 Zack Mullock for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-02 A’Dorian Murray-Thomas for Essex County Commissioner Ahmad Saleh for Hanover Township Committeeman Anthony L. Cherry for Monmouth County Surrogate Anthony Riccardi for Stanhope Borough Council Arianna "Sophia" Hull for Chatham Borough Council Austin Edwards for Trenton Mayor Brianna Armstead for Linden City Council Candace Faust for Eatontown Borough Council Carl Benedetti Jr. for Ewing Township Council Chelsey Tanner for Monmouth County Commissioner Christina Warburton for Monroe Township Board of Education Christine Erin Abood for Manville Borough Town Council David D'Alessandro for Hasbrouck Heights Town Council George A. Zapata for Kearny Town Council Gloria-Ann Seel for Absecon City Council John N Balwierczak for North Arlington Mayor Jonathan Chebra for Burlington County Commissioner Jonathan Ross Sagalow for Caldwell Council Kyle Gornick for Atlantic County Commissioner Kyle Porro for Montclair Township At-Large Commissioner Luke Pavlov for Chesterfield Township Committee Mallory Craig-Karim for Somerset Borough Council Medinah E. Muhammad for Essex County Commissioner Melanie Mercado-Miller for Barrington Borough Council Michael Tinsley for Carneys Point Board of Education Quandell Iglesia for Monroe Township Board of Education Quinton Law for Moorestown Council Sam Holden for Warren Township Committee Sarah Bonilla for Kearny Town Council Sofia J. Ugarte for Monmouth County Commissioner Steven J Spoto for Closter Council Tahje Thomas for Paulsboro Council Trent Levitt for Flemington Borough Council Will DiGrande for Warren Township Committee Wilson Pichardo for District 1 Essex County Commissioner Zachary Astor for Hainesport Township Committee New Jersey Young Democrats is proud to support the following candidates: Cory Anthony Booker for U.S. Senate Adam Hamawy for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-12 Analilia Mejia for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-11 Donald Norcross for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-01 Frank Pallone, Jr. for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-06 Herb Conaway for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-03 Josh Gottheimer for U.S. House of Representative, NJ-05 Nellie Avila Pou for U.S. House of Representative, NJ-09 Robert J Menendez for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-08 Abdur R. Yasin for Essex County Commissioner At-Large Anastasia Zuccaro for Shamong Township Committee Anthony Talerico, Jr. for Eatontown Borough Mayor Bert H. Steinmann for Ewing Township Mayor Brian Carlin for Burlington County Commissioner Carlos M. Pomares for Essex County Commissioner Cassandra Licata-Link for Barnegat Township Committee Charlie Tomaro for Middlesex County Commissioner Christine McGrath for Essex County Commissioner Cindy McCoy for Hi-Nella Borough Council Claribel Cortes for Middlesex County Surrogate Crystal Marie Feliciano for Trenton Council At-Large Danielle M. Jones for Eatontown Borough Council Daryl Eisenberg Knegten for Mayor of Watchung Deborah Engel for Essex County Commissioner At-Large Elizabeth “Lisa” Bender for County Clerk Gina R. Burton for Monroe Township Board of Education Heather Cooper for Evesham Council Jackie Veasy for Evesham Mayor Jennifer Dawson for Green Brook Township Committee Joan Brennan for Northfield City Council Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. for Essex County Executive Julia Guttilla for Emerson Borough Council Kia Phua for Ocean County Commissioner Krystal Hunter for Evesham Council Leonard Luciano for Essex County Commissioner Leslie Koppel for Middlesex County Commissioner Lindsay Kraft for Watchung Borough Council Marianne P. Clemente for Barnegat Township Committee Melissa A. Bellamy for Manville Borough Council Nakia White Barr for Mercer County Commissioner Nicholas Eck for Chatham Borough Council Randy Brolo for Burlington County Commissioner Sean Riggin for Atlantic County Sheriff Stephanie Lyon for Morris Township Committee Terrance Petrese Benson Sr for Lumberton Township Committee Tom Bader for Moorestown Council Yazminelly Gonzalez for Trenton Council At-Large Zoila Cassanova for Passaic County Surrogate NJYD promotes strong leadership, echoes the voices of those underrepresented, and fights for voting rights throughout every corner of The Great State of New Jersey. Now is the time to make our voices heard and get out the vote for candidates we believe in,” expressed NJYD Executive Vice President Jordan Lewis. NJYD’s endorsements and support do not denote and are not an exhaustive list of all campaigns NJYD supports in New Jersey; these lists comprise those exclusively who applied for NJYD’s endorsement or support by the September 1st deadline. “I believe deeply in every candidate we have chosen to endorse and support,” said NJYD Political Director Shytail Clay. “Young people are ready to see our priorities translated into action. Each of these candidates brings their own vision and leadership, and they will push the needle forward and help build a better future for our generation. I’m proud to stand with them as we head toward November. Now is the time to turn that belief into action—show up, organize, and make our voices heard. This November, we have an opportunity to turn our support into meaningful change.” The New Jersey Young Democrats will hold an endorsement party at Cooper’s Riverview in Trenton on Friday, October 9th from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Those who would like to attend can purchase their ticket here. To stay up to date on event details and future opportunities, be sure to follow NJYD on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, and Bluesky at @njyoungdems.
Excerpts From: “Four candidates vie for two Warren Township Committee seats”
Published in Echoes-Sentinel Oct 8, 2026 WARREN TWP. - Four candidates are competing for two seats on the Township Committee: incumbent Republicans Mayor Shaun Fine and Vanessa Kian, and challenging Democrats Will DiGrande and Sam Holden. DiGrande, an outreach manager for the U.S. House of Representatives, is a lifelong resident of Warren. Holden, a medical device manufacturing project manager, moved to Warren about four years ago, just before the birth of his first child. The Echoes-Sentinel reached out to all four candidates with the same prompts… What Relevant Volunteer Experience And Community Involvement Do You Have? DiGrande: I serve as chair of the Warren Township Democratic Committee, president of the Somerset County Young Democrats and a member of the Warren Township Planning Board. Holden: I volunteer with Citizens Climate Lobby. We advocate for policy to protect our climate and natural spaces and educate local folks and local governments on what they can implement at home and in their communities to lower their energy bills. Why Are You Running? DiGrande: I am running to be the change I wanted to see growing up here. As a proud graduate of Warren's public schools, I often wished there were more ways to get involved and be a voice for residents in town who feel unheard. Now as a professional in public service, I enjoy assisting others in my community and am familiar with listening to their needs. My role as an elected official will be to serve everyone in town, not just those I know well or who have voted for me, and to advocate for their wishes the best I can. This will include collaborating with my colleagues at the county, state and federal levels to enhance the quality of life in our community. Serving on the Township Committee means more to me than holding a title, but rather to lead in the best interest of Warren's residents through giving back. Holden: I can do a better job making a Warren my kids will enjoy and be proud of. What Are Your Top Three Priorities? DiGrande: Warren currently faces challenges in traffic congestion, storm water management, and access to public meetings. If elected, my running mate and I will leverage our relationships with state and county officials to devote attention and resources to addressing these issue areas. • First, congestion can be alleviated with studies of major thoroughfares and increased traffic light synchronization at busy times. Since these are often county-owned roads, I intend to work with fellow elected officials to prioritize cutting down travel time in town. • Secondly, storm drains and culverts should be regularly maintained to ensure flooding remains minimal during major storms, unlike when significant damage was sustained during heavy rains in recent years. The quicker any debris is cleared, the sooner power can be restored to residents in cases of outages. • Finally, access to Township Committee meetings is currently restricted to in-person attendance on a weeknight. I have frequently joined these meetings and publicly voiced my support of virtual access via Zoom, so that many more residents can be part of the conversation. Holden: • Fix the traffic congestion issues caused by all of the construction in town. • Improve storm safety and township communications during power outages and road closures. • Quality of life improvements including implementing zoom participation in township committee meetings, reducing restrictive ordinances on hen ownership, and bulk trash pickup.
Published in Echoes-Sentinel Sep 17, 2026 TO THE EDITOR: As Warren grows to meet the demands of an increasing population, we urgently need a Township Committee that will address one of the growing challenges to our town: traffic. Because if you’ve ever driven on Mount Bethel Road or Mountain Boulevard during the day, then you know that we need a plan for what are clearly city-level traffic jams. That’s why I’m supporting Will DiGrande and Sam Holden for Township Committee this November. They understand that now is the time to begin planning new traffic patterns and alternative sources of transportation, such as shuttles to the new housing developments on Mount Bethel Road near Route 78 and at Hillcrest Road and Emerson Lane back to the center of town. We want all residents to be able to shop in Warren and to feel that they are part of our community, but if it’s too difficult to get here, they will turn to other areas. Will and Sam also understand that traffic affects safety and quality of life issues too. Better traffic flow can mean fewer accidents, and the less that cars are idling and waiting in traffic, the less they will spew exhaust fumes. Those are wins for every Warren resident. The key is to have Township Committee members who are proactive about solving the issues we’ll face in the coming years, rather than waiting and letting them get worse. Please join me in supporting Will DiGrande and Sam Holden for Township Committee. They’re here for our community, our quality of life, and our future. ROBERT GRUNDFEST Wilshire Road Warren
Published in Echoes-Sentinel Sep 1, 2026 WARREN TWP. - Democratic congressional candidate Rebecca Bennett attended a canvass launch at Warren Town Hall with Democratic Township Committee candidates Sam Holden and Will DiGrande on Sunday morning, Aug. 30. Bennett is running in Congressional District 7 and will face incumbent Republican Tom Kean Jr. on the ballot in November. DiGrande and Holden are challenging Republicans Mayor Shaun Fine and Deputy Mayor Vanessa Kian for their seats on the Township Committee.
Published in Echoes-Sentinel Aug 31, 2026 TO THE EDITOR: My neighbors and I have not forgotten how the current Warren leadership failed us during the July 3rd storm. Some of us are still dealing with property damage. It’s a reminder that many of us spent several days without power during a heat wave holiday weekend. We had no access to running water since our wells required power. Aside from dealing with the chaotic aftermath, some of us had to literally dodge falling trees that night. This was a harrowing experience, which, with climate change, is likely to be repeated. Judging by the way our Township Committee handled this, I worry for our community’s safety. It was hard to witness next-door Berkeley Heights receiving timely information regarding JCP&L crew locations and power restoration estimates – basic support expected of any Township Committee. What did Warren get? Not much. We got a mere handful of updates across the town’s website and social media, basically amounting to: We’re working on it. It’s complicated. For this reason, I support Will DiGrande and Sam Holden for Warren Township Committee. Their platform addresses proactive storm water management and clear communication during extreme weather events. A real emergency protocol consisting of frequent updates and working restoration estimates would have prevented a lot of what my neighbors and I went through. With increased weather catastrophes, this could actually be a matter of life and death. Please vote for Will DiGrande and Sam Holden for Warren Township Committee this November. Our safety depends on it. PIOTR OSSOWSKI Northridge Way Warren Twp.
Published in Echoes-Sentinel Aug 5, 2026 WARREN TWP. – Democrats Will DiGrande and Sam Holden are running for Township Committee in November. They won the June Democratic primary as write-in candidates, meaning their names were not on the ballot. But they will be this fall. The pair will face Republican incumbents Mayor Shaun Fine and Deputy Mayor Vanessa Kian. The five-person Township Committee has been entirely Republican for decades, but that hasn’t deterred DiGrande and Holden from dedicating themselves to their campaign. DiGrande unsuccessfully ran for a seat on the committee last year against now-Committeeman Daniel McCarey. The DiGrande Holden campaign has emphasized its intention to “bring bold new leadership” to the township. The candidates “are ready and eager to lead Warren into a new era of responsive local government and transparent decision-making,” a campaign release said. DiGrande is a lifelong resident of Warren and attended the township’s public schools. The campaign release states that DiGrande is “ready to bring his energy and public service knowledge to the committee” and “determined to introduce a new voice and perspective” to the governing body by “fostering a more inclusive and participatory local government, creating opportunities for our youth, and ensuring that every voice is heard.” DiGrande works as an outreach manager for New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District and was previously employed by the state Senate. “As someone who grew up in town, I have witnessed the many challenges Warren has faced as it has grown over the years,” DiGrande said. “My professional involvement in government has given me great insight into strategies that have worked for other areas of New Jersey and that could benefit the residents of this town. I’m excited to bring fresh ideas to the table to serve the people of Warren – my neighbors, friends, and family.” Holden is a father of two young children whose “goal in life is to build a sustainable and affordable future his kids can be proud of,” the campaign release states. He works in medical device manufacturing. “Building tomorrow’s Warren means two things for me: affordability and transparency,” Holden said.
For Immediate Release Warren, NJ July 31, 2026 Will DiGrande & Sam Holden: Ready to Serve Warren The DiGrande Holden campaign announced today their intention to bring bold new leadership to Warren Township. The candidates, Democrats Will DiGrande and Sam Holden, are the clear choice this November for residents who are tired of policies that have saddled Warren with traffic, an incomprehensible master plan, and less-than-optimal public communications. They are ready and eager to lead Warren into a new era of responsive local government and transparent decision-making. DiGrande is a lifelong resident of Warren and a product of our local schools. He is ready to bring his energy and public service knowledge to the committee. He is determined to introduce a new voice and perspectives to the Township Committee by fostering a more inclusive and participatory local government, creating opportunities for our youth, and ensuring that every voice is heard. DiGrande also has the kind of experience and level of commitment Warren needs. He has both state and federal government experience and works for New Jersey residents every day. “As someone who grew up in town, I have witnessed the many challenges Warren has faced as it has grown over the years,” DiGrande said. “My professional involvement in government has given me great insight into strategies that have worked for other areas of New Jersey and that could benefit the residents of this town. I’m excited to bring fresh ideas to the table to serve the people of Warren – my neighbors, friends, and family.” Holden is a father of two young children whose goal in life is to build a sustainable and affordable future his kids can be proud of. He will bring to the committee his experience in medical device manufacturing, which includes collaborating with individuals from all walks of life, managing projects, and removing inefficiencies. Holden is a problem-solver at heart, and he will be a leader in addressing how Warren manages its public-private partnerships, its growth, and its commitment to a cleaner future. “Building tomorrow’s Warren means two things for me: affordability and transparency,” Holden said. “It’s frustrating that prices are rising and our government is not acting to alleviate that. It’s concerning that our local government fails to inform us of crucial updates such as power restoration timelines during our most recent storms. And it’s unacceptable that our local government still does not allow busy residents – people who can't drop everything to drive to town hall – to participate in township committee meetings remotely. I'm excited to propose solutions to these issues that have affected Warren for far too long.” DiGrande and Holden will be powerful, influential voices on the Township Committee. They will represent residents by opening up more channels for communication and transparency, and they will bring fresh, new ideas to the table that reflect the needs of residents. Vote Will DiGrande and Sam Holden for Warren Township Committee in November. ###
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