Morristown Councilman Vying For Assembly Seat

MORRISTOWN, NJ — A councilman from Morristown's Third Ward is throwing his hat in the ring for a seat in the New Jersey Assembly.

Steve Pylypchuk, currently in his first term as a Morristown Councilman, has announced his candidacy for a seat in New Jersey’s 25th District Assembly. The district spans central Morris County and parts of upper Passaic County, and is currently represented by Republican incumbents Aura Dunn and Christian Barranco.

Neither Aura Dunn nor Christian Barranco has officially launched their re-election campaigns.

Pylypchuk is running as part of the 'Democrats for Change' slate, led by gubernatorial candidate Steve Fulop. This coalition of leaders is dedicated to revitalizing New Jersey through progressive policies and grassroots engagement.

“I’m proud to join Steve Fulop and this team of forward-thinking candidates,” said Pylypchuk. “Together, we’re fighting to bring real progress to our communities and put people—not politics—at the center of decision-making.”

Pylypchuk said his platform is centered around addressing the key issues affecting District 25 residents, including the ongoing housing crisis, climate-resilient infrastructure, and championing universal pre-K and affordable childcare.

“Our generation understands what it’s like to juggle student loans, the housing crisis, andraising a family with two working parents,” Pylypchuk said. “We can’t afford to keep relying on incremental changes. We need bold solutions that reflect the realities of today’s families and prepare us for the challenges of tomorrow.”

As part of his campaign, Pylypchuk is also advocating for the reinstatement of SALT deductions, responsible spending, and policies that ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively to benefit schools, infrastructure, and local services.

“Families in District 25 need a leader who understands their struggles firsthand,” Pylypchuk added. “This campaign is about creating a new New Jersey—one where opportunity and equity are within reach for everyone.”

Endorsed by Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty, who recently announced his run for a fifth term, Pylypchuk has used his time as Third Ward Councilman to focus on improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and addressing community concerns

Additionally, he has served as Chair of the Morristown Zoning Board and as a member of the Environmental Commission.

With a background as a civil engineer and a dedicated public servant, Pylypchuk has led transformative infrastructure projects, including the reconstruction of Route 35 following Superstorm Sandy and the development of the new Terminal C at LaGuardia Airport.

He currently resides in Morristown with his wife, Sieglinde, and their two young daughters.

“As a husband and father, I understand the challenges families face every day,” Pylypchuk added. “That’s why I’m committed to creating a future where every family has the support and opportunities they need to succeed.”

Legislative District 25 includes the following municipalities:

• Morris County: Boonton Township, Butler, Dover, Harding, Jefferson, Kinnelon, Madison, Mendham Borough, Mendham Township, Mine Hill, Morris, Morristown, Mount Arlington, Randolph, Rockaway Borough, Rockaway Township, Victory Gardens, and Wharton
• Passaic County: West Milford

“These towns are the backbone of New Jersey,” Pylypchuk said. “This campaign is about ensuring that every family in District 25 has access to affordable housing, quality schools, safe infrastructure, and economic opportunities. It’s about making our communities stronger for the future.”