Mayor in Monmouth, New Jersey

2026 Primary Election

• Anthony Talerico Jr. — Incumbent Mayor in Eatontown, NJ

  Anthony Talerico Jr. is the Mayor of Eatontown, New Jersey. A registered nurse specializing in oncology at Monmouth Medical Center, he is also a 2018 graduate of Brookdale Community College’s nursing program, having previously studied accounting and forensic accounting at the University of Scranton. As mayor, Talerico advocates for community health initiatives, particularly mental health awareness, and works to combat stigma. He ran for mayor as a Democrat in 2022, emphasizing the valuable multitasking and advocacy skills nurses bring to leadership roles and encouraging greater civic engagement among healthcare professionals.

• Maria Grazia Escalante — Eatontown Councilwoman in Eatontown, NJ

  Maria Grazia Escalante is a Republican candidate for Mayor of Eatontown, New Jersey, in the 2026 primary election. Currently serving as an Eatontown Councilwoman, Escalante is challenging the incumbent Mayor, Anthony Talerico Jr. She has a history of civic engagement, including a previous candidacy for Eatontown Borough Council in 2022. Escalante is an official candidate endorsed by the Monmouth County Republican Organization, seeking the mayoral position as well as a seat on the County Committee. The primary election is scheduled for June 2.