Rugg, Almada, Mendez Claim Primary Upsets

Incumbent Dover Town Council member Santana retains his seat.

The Dover primary election split the four open races, with incumbents Claudia P. Toro (D-Ward 1), Sergio Fernandez (D-Ward 2), and Michael J. Scarneo (D-Ward 3) losing their seats. See the results below and check back for updates:

DANIELLA MENDEZ DEFEATS CLAUDIA P. TORO

STATEMENT FROM MENDEZ:

"Yesterday, Dover raised its voice, and what it said, loud and clear, is that the future of Dover belongs to all of us.

As we await the final results, one thing is already certain: something powerful is happening in our community. A movement fueled by courage, compassion, and the belief that Dover can and must work for all of us.

No matter the outcome, tonight is not about one person. It belongs to every resident who showed up, for our neighbors, our families, and our future. To those who knocked on doors, donated, made calls late into the evening, opened their homes, and cast their ballots with hope in their hearts, thank you. This moment is yours.

Thank you for believing. Not just in me, but in us. In a shared vision of a Dover that is more just, more inclusive, and more accountable to the people it serves."

WARD 1	TOTALS
DANIELLA MENDEZ	168
CLAUDIA P. TORO	147
*(NO GOP PETITION)	0

JUDITH RUGG DEFEATS SERGIO RODRIGUEZ

STATEMENT FROM RUGG:

"Being elected to this council seat is both humbling and surreal. None of this would have been possible without the tireless support of my team, Maria Chacon, Dennis Touhey, the trust of our voters, and the unwavering encouragement of my friends and family. I am deeply honored to have a third opportunity to serve our community, and I will hold myself accountable to do even better. 

This victory belongs to Dover, to the volunteers, families, and neighbors who believed that we needed change. I will work diligently to make you proud, ensuring that every decision I make reflects the needs and voices of our entire community. Our town has faced challenges under the current leadership, but change is coming. 

I am truly happy, grateful, and blessed for this chance to serve, and I promise to lead with care, integrity, and respect."

WARD 2	RESULTS
SERGIO FERNANDEZ	112
JUDITH RUGG	214
*(NO GOP PETITION)	0

CHRISTOPHER ALMADA DEFEATS MICHAEL J. SCARNEO

STATEMENT FROM ALMADA:

"I am incredibly humbled and honored to stand before you today as the winner of the Democratic election for Dover's 3rd Ward. This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every single person who believed in our vision and dedicated their time, energy, and resources to this campaign.

To my incredible volunteers, campaign staff, and tireless supporters – thank you. Your unwavering commitment, countless hours of door-knocking, phone calls, and conversations truly made the difference. Your belief in me and in the power of community is what fueled this journey.

I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to the people who gave me the courage to run. Your encouragement, shared concerns, and faith in my ability to represent you were the initial spark that ignited this campaign. Thank you for empowering me to step forward and fight for a better future for Dover.

To the residents of Dover's 3rd Ward, I want to assure you that I will lead with compassion, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to your well-being. My promise to you is to always have your best interests at heart, and to work tirelessly to address the issues that matter most to our community. I am eager to collaborate with all Dover residents to build a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous town for everyone.

Thank you, Dover. Let's get to work."

WARD 3	TOTALS
MICHAEL J. SCARNEO	121
CHRISTOPHER ALMADA	189
*(NO GOP PETITION)	0

SANTANA CLAIMS UNCONTESTED RACE

WARD 4	TOTALS
ARTURO B. SANTANA	120
*(write-in votes)	12
*(NO GOP PETITION)	0