Hanlon Urges GOP to Match Democratic Turnout in Final Hours

Morristown, N.J. The final weekend of the election campaign arrived with Democrats holding a measurable advantage in early ballots, a lead that New Jersey Republican chair Christine Hanlon addressed directly on Sunday morning. While Democratic voters surged in mail-in and early in-person counts, Hanlon told a gathering of local party officials that enthusiasm alone is insufficient for victory.

Speaking at the annual Get Out The Vote breakfast hosted by Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi at the Knoll Country Club, Hanlon argued that the current Democratic energy is driven by specific policy goals rather than general optimism. "To tear down our country and tear up the Constitution," she said. "And we need to meet and exceed that enthusiasm to be victorious on (Tuesday)." Her remarks set a tone of urgency for the Republican base as they prepare for the final push before election day.

Hanlon, who also serves as the Monmouth County clerk, outlined three specific Democratic congressional candidates to illustrate the party's shifting direction. She cited Adam Hamawy in the 12th Congressional District, noting his courtroom testimony for a man accused in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. She also referenced Rebecca Bennett in the 7th District, who previously stated she no longer wished to attend a church that included Trump voters, a claim Bennett has said lacks context.

The focus then shifted to Analilia Mejia in the 11th District, where the breakfast was held. The crowd reacted with boos before Hanlon even finished listing Mejia's support for Medicare for All and a $25 hourly minimum wage. Joe Hathaway, Mejia's Republican opponent, was present in the room alongside Tayfun Selen, who is seeking reelection as a Morris County Commissioner. The presence of state Senator Mikie Sherrill in Morristown on Saturday to support Democratic candidate Chris Russo underscored the competitive nature of the local commissioner race.

Grossi acknowledged the structural challenge facing Republicans, stating that Democrats "have a machine" in terms of early voting. She emphasized that the party must counter this advantage with a high turnout on Tuesday. Hanlon added that while Democrats criticize the state's affordability, they control the statehouse and shape those conditions. The message to the gathered officials was clear: the gap in early votes must be closed through a surge in final-day participation.