Hudson County Democrats Cross Party Lines to Endorse GOP Sheriff Hopeful Elvis Alvarez

Elvis Alvarez, a 25-year veteran of the West New York Police Department and former detective, appeared on the HudPost podcast to discuss his historic campaign for Hudson County sheriff. If elected, Alvarez would be the first Republican to hold the office since 1905.

During the interview, Alvarez emphasized his Hudson County roots and commitment to community service. “I was born and raised in West New York. It was a tightly knit community where everyone knew each other,” Alvarez said, crediting his upbringing and early mentors—many of whom were police officers and firefighters—for inspiring his law enforcement career.

Alvarez outlined key priorities of his campaign, including transparency, accessibility, and rebuilding trust. He proposed monthly walk-throughs in towns across the county and a “Know Thy Neighbor” initiative to foster stronger neighborhood ties.

Alvarez also addressed misconceptions about his political affiliation. “I’ve been called a fascist. I’ve been called a Nazi. Look at my skin color—nothing can be further from the truth,” he said. “Like I said, I’m a moderate. I’m a little toward the middle, but when it comes to law and order, I’m a little bit toward the right.”

Endorsements from prominent Democrats, including North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco and outgoing Sheriff Frank Schillari, have added momentum to his campaign. Alvarez called the endorsements “monumental,” particularly Sacco’s. “He is beloved by people in West New York. When he was senator, he would come into our town all the time. People needed help, he always helped,” Alvarez said.

He credited Schillari’s endorsement to a divergence in law enforcement values and praised his willingness to cross party lines. “He chose the good of the people over partisan politics,” Alvarez said.

Mental health and homelessness are central issues for Alvarez. He called for expanded training and housing programs, especially for veterans. “We’re the richest country in the world. There’s no need for that,” he said.