Council in Bergen, New Jersey

2026 Primary Election

• Michael A. Cacouris — Financial Professional in New York, NJ

  Michael Cacouris has a professional background in finance, currently associated with Alpinefund, LLC. He pursued higher education at the University of Birmingham from 1977 to 1981, following earlier studies at another institution between 1975 and 1977. His professional experience appears to be centered in financial activities, primarily in New York. Details regarding his specific policy positions or the reasons behind his decision to run for office are not available in the provided information.

• Philip E. Simotas — President Board of Education in Alpine, NJ

  Philip Simotas is an established public servant in Alpine, New Jersey, where he currently holds the position of President of the Board of Education for the Borough of Alpine. With a history of community involvement, he was an incumbent candidate in the 2023 local elections, successfully securing re-election to the Alpine School Board for a three-year term. During that election, Simotas garnered significant support, winning with 183 votes, representing 55.3% of the total. He resides in Alpine, New Jersey, and is 61 years old.

• David W. Kupferschmid — Incumbent Councilman in Alpine, NJ

  David W. Kupferschmid serves as an Incumbent Councilman for Alpine, New Jersey. First elected in 2023, his current term is set to expire in 2026. Initially a lifelong Democrat, he made a significant public announcement of his switch to the Republican Party. This change has made him the sole Republican on the Alpine Council, which is otherwise composed of five Democrats and a Democratic mayor. Upon switching parties, he endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, stating his commitment to addressing issues such as halting over-development and enhancing neighborhood safety for citizens. He was welcomed by the Bergen County Republican Organization for his stance.