Political Sneak Peak: Who's Running?

The sun is shining. Spring is near. In Hoboken that can mean only one thing: it's election season! 

Local newspapers and blogs have been reporting the candidacy of several people in different wards. Here's an overview of who's who, who declared candidacy and whom we're still waiting on. 

First Ward: Theresa Castellano vs. Eric Kurta 

Incumbent , who has been on the council for more than a decade-and-a-half is running (at least) one more time. Kurta, who sits on the Municipal Hospital Authority will be running against her. Kurta, a known supporter of Mayor Dawn Zimmer, is also a member of People for Open Government and a frequenter of council meetings. 

Second Ward: Tom Greaney vs. Beth Mason 

Incumbent , who also ran for mayor in June and November 2009, will be challenged by Second Ward resident Greaney. Mason, who became Council president after power on the council shifted after the November special elections. Canvassers wearing yellow wind breakers with "Team Mason" on it have been walking around the Second Ward recently. 

Third Ward: Greg Lincoln vs. Michael Russo 

Incumbent Michael Russo, who is the council's representation on the Hoboken Housing Authority board, will have to defend his seat against Greg Lincoln. Lincoln's announcement came through local blog Mile Square View. Russo, the current council vice president, hasn't officially filed his candidacy yet, but it's widely known that he will run again. 

Fourth Ward: Tim Occhipinti vs. Rami Pinchevsky

After barely half a year on the council, Occhipinti will have to run again. This time he's being challenged by Fourth Warder Pinchevsky, who is a known supporter of the mayor and is a regular at council meetings. 

Fifth Ward: Peter Cunningham vs. Lenny Liuzzi vs. ... 

The fifth ward is the only district—for now—where more than two candidates will run against each other. Liuzzi, the town historian, has made it clear he's running for council after placing an ad in the Hudson Reporter. Cunningham, a supporter of Zimmer, will be defending his seat. But then there's the third—yet undeclared—candidate. Although some names have been floating around town, nobody has declared his or her candidacy yet. 

Sixth Ward: Nino Giacchi vs. Jennifer Giattino 

The latest addition came on Monday, when Giattino announced her candidacy. Giattino, a mother of three sons, will be trying to unseat incumbent Giacchi. Giattino came as a bit of a surprise, after it became known that Joe Branco, owner of Room84 and Scotland Yard, would not be running after all.