Longtime Democratic Sheriff Schillari Switches to Republican Party

As first reported by Hudson County View, Hudson County Sheriff Frank Schillari switched his party affiliation from Democrat to Republican in July, citing a commitment to law enforcement and public service over party politics. The move comes after his defeat in the June 10 Democratic primary by Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis.

Schillari had previously aligned himself with Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop’s self-described progressive “Democrats for Change” slate during Fulop’s 2025 gubernatorial bid. Despite that affiliation, Schillari now says the current Democratic Party no longer reflects the principles that guided his career.

In a statement, he said, “After decades of service, I’ve come to understand that leadership isn’t about party lines, it’s about standing up for what’s right, even if it’s not popular.” He described the switch as a way to continue serving without compromise and reaffirmed his focus on law enforcement, public safety, and fiscal discipline.

“My oath never mentioned a party, it mentioned the people. That’s who I serve. That’s who I fight for,” Schillari said.