Republican Leadership Set to Flip Hudson Sheriff’s Office

Hudson County, NJ — A political transformation is underway at the top of Hudson County’s law enforcement leadership, and it’s brimming with promise. Republican candidate Elvis Alvarez, a decorated Hispanic law-enforcement veteran, is poised to bring change to the Sheriff’s Office—will he be backed by none other than outgoing five-term Sheriff Frank Schillari, who recently crossed party lines?

Frank Schillari: A Proven Public Servant Embraces Republican Values

After 15 years serving as Hudson County Sheriff—first elected in 2010—Frank Schillari has announced his switch from the Democratic to the Republican Party in July 2025, following a narrow loss in the June 10 Democratic primary to Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis. At age 78, Schillari emphasized that his decision was rooted in principle, not politics:

“Leadership isn’t about party lines … my oath never mentioned a party, it mentioned the people. That’s who I serve.” 

Republican county leaders quickly embraced Schillari’s move. Hudson County GOP Chair Jose Arango praised his switch as evidence of the GOP’s inclusive values, calling it “proof that the Democrats are a shrinking party” and affirming that the Republican Party is “here for all New Jerseyans who want commonsense, lower taxes, lower crime”—a message echoing concerns many residents hold. 

Elvis Alvarez: A Strong Republican Candidate with Local Roots

Running in the November 4, 2025 general election, Elvis Alvarez is the Republican nominee for Sheriff. A veteran West New York police officer with over two decades of service, Alvarez steadily rose through the ranks—eventually earning respect as a juvenile detective and community youth coach. He won his primary with over 95% of the vote. 

Sheriff Frank Schillari’s recent party switch and the GOP wave building across Hudson County, Alvarez brings the law enforcement experience, community dedication, and common-sense approach voters are seeking.

The Road to November: A Shift in Hudson County Politics

Schillari’s loss in the June 10 Democratic primary was close: he received about 46% of the vote versus Jimmy Davis’s 53%—roughly 31,200 votes to 32,600.  His campaign had highlighted past sexual harassment allegations and an overturned jury verdict involving Davis. Schillari’s team ran mailers calling Davis a “creep” and referencing lawsuits; although Davis was cleared and the $500,000 verdict vacated, the messaging resonated with many voters concerned about accountability. 

Why Republicans Are in a Strong Position

Bipartisan credibility: With Schillari’s switch, Republicans now carry the voice of an experienced, long-tenured sheriff who understands both sides of Hudson County politics. Law-and-order focus: Alvarez’s roots in policing and Schillari’s emphasis on public safety and fiscal discipline align with growing community concerns over crime and cost of living. Fresh alternative: Jimmy Davis, while Democratic nominee, remains shadowed by allegations of inappropriate text messaging and workplace conduct. Those controversies—though legally resolved—continue to be raised by opponents.  Changing political currents: The GOP’s inclusive message, spearheaded by local leaders like Chair Arango and the switch by Schillari, signals new momentum across Hudson County. 

What’s at Stake in November

On November 4, 2025, Hudson County voters will decide whether to embrace a new chapter of law enforcement leadership. With Elvis Alvarez representing a fresh law-and-order vision and Frank Schillari lending decades‑long credibility to the cause, the Republican ticket offers a compelling alternative to continued Democratic control. Hudson County hasn’t had a Republican Sheriff since 1904, can history be made this November? The only other question remains, will Sheriff Frank X. Schillari publicly endorse Elvis Alvarez for Sheriff along with other Republican candidates for the November election?