HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Once considered a rising star in New Jersey Republican politics, Hamilton Township Councilwoman Ileana Schirmer is not seeking reelection this fall.
“I have decided to not seek re-election,” said Schirmer in a late Wednesday press release. “As a mother of two, and with my son in high school, I look forward to having time to support him, attend his baseball games and spend more quality time with my family, who have supported me throughout my terms on Council.”
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Schirmer also cited her long-standing friction with Republican Mayor Kelly Yaede.
“Additionally, I simply cannot support an Administration I no longer respect. An administration defined by bullying, intimidation, retaliation, secrecy and self-absorbed attitudes that puts residents last,” added Schirmer.
A Cuban American and businesswoman, Schirmer unsuccessfully sought the LD14 State Senate seat back in 2017.
Her full letter is posted below:
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Dear Hamilton Township Residents,
Allow me to begin by saying it has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve you as your Councilwoman. My time on the governing body has been an incredible gift. Throughout my years of service, I have been involved in and supported many of our community’s organizations, programs, churches, schools and incredible individuals.
As my term comes to an end this year and as a supporter of term limits, I have decided to not seek re-election. As a mother of two, and with my son in high school, I look forward to having time to support him, attend his baseball games and spend more quality time with my family, who have supported me throughout my terms on Council. Additionally, I simply cannot support an Administration I no longer respect. An administration defined by bullying, intimidation, retaliation, secrecy and self-absorbed attitudes that puts residents last.
I am forever grateful to all the individuals who throughout the years have provided support and guidance. Those friendships will always mean the world to me, and while I will no longer serve on the governing body in 2020, I will continue to be involved in serving the Hamilton Township community in different ways. I will always speak my mind. That is who I am and who I will always be. I am a very loyal person, but that loyalty is not blind. I look forward to seeing many of you as I continue to work with the great organizations I care so much for and support, including the Hispanic outreach programs and events for our ever-growing Hispanic community.
Once again, thank you to the Hamilton residents who put their faith in me to serve the entire community, not just a select few. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the first elected Hispanic female in Mercer County and Hamilton Township.
With much respect and deep gratitude. God bless you.
Ileana Schirmer
Hamilton Township Councilwoman
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