Frum Republican Shmuel Ellenbogen Makes History With Ocean County Win

Republican Shmuel “Sam” Ellenbogen scored a landmark victory Tuesday night, becoming the first frum Jewish official ever elected to a countywide position in Ocean County.

According to unofficial results from the Ocean County Clerk’s Office, Ellenbogen and his running mate, Raymond Gormley of Little Egg Harbor, won decisively with 68% of the vote against their Democratic challengers, who received 31%, with all precincts reporting.

“I am deeply honored by the trust the people of Ocean County have placed in me,” Ellenbogen said in a statement Tuesday night. “This victory belongs to every resident who believes in responsible, responsive, and inclusive leadership. I look forward to working across the aisle to keep taxes low, improve infrastructure, and support our growing communities.”

A 37-year-old father of five from Toms River, Ellenbogen ran unopposed in the June Republican primary after securing the backing of Ocean County GOP Chairman George R. Gilmore. He will fill the seat of retiring Commissioner Virginia “Ginny” Haines, while Gormley will take over for John P. Kelly, who was elected County Clerk.

Ellenbogen, who serves as commissioner and treasurer of the Ocean County Utilities Authority, has long been an advocate for Toms River’s growing Jewish community. Supporters praised his commitment to transparency and his responsiveness to residents’ concerns.

Democrats mounted a minimal campaign effort in the deep-red county, where Republicans continue to hold every commissioner seat and all countywide offices.

Ellenbogen and Gormley are slated to take the oath of office at the Board of Commissioners’ reorganization meeting in January 2026. The Ocean County Board of Elections will certify the final vote totals on November 18.