Somerset County Dems Ride With Style at Asbury Pride

ASBURY PARK, NJ – The Somerset County Democratic Organization (SCDO), led by Chair Peg Schaffer, once again honored the LGBTQ+ community at the 34th Annual Jersey Pride celebration in Asbury Park this weekend. The SCDO’s float was decorated by the party’s LGBTQ+ caucus under the direction of chair Frank Morano and driven by vice chair and former CD7 congressional candidate Karen Carroll.

“The Somerset County Democrats love coming to Asbury Pride every year for this celebration not just of the LGBTQ+ community, but of the joy and diversity of families, friends, and the freedoms that make our country great,” said Schaffer. “I can’t think of a better way to spend the first weekend in June than at the Jersey Shore having a great time with so many friends and colleagues showing our Jersey Pride.”

The 2026 float featured pride bunting and messages of inclusion, and was led by marchers carrying the SCDO banner reading, “Vote Like Your Rights Depend On It”. Schaffer, Morano, and Carroll were joined on the float by Somerset County Commissioners Shanel Y. Robinson and Melonie Marano, Bridgewater Council Vice President Andrew Bucko and family, Somerset County LGBTQ+ Advisory Board Chair Michele Kidd, Sussex County Democratic Chair Zoe Heath, and NJ Democratic State Committee member Eileen Della Volle.

“As the first County Democrats to launch an LGBTQ+ caucus we are always thrilled to be a part of Jersey Pride, and to celebrate with so many of our friends from around the state,” said LGBTQ+ Caucus Chair Morano. “It was great fun seeing the Monmouth Dems’ decked out Jeep during the parade, and spending time with Governor Mikie Sherrill and Congressman Pallone during the festivities.”

More News from Raritan

• St. Ann Classical Academy Third Graders Explore History, Faith, and Community on Walking Field Trip Students then visited the Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament for a quiet moment of Adoration.
• RideWise and Bernards Township Hosts Street Smart Safety Community Event on June 15 The Rain date is June 16th.