Questions About a Write-In Flyer in Gloucester Township’s Mayoral Race

Gloucester Township deserves a transparent election process. On Monday, May 5, 2025, some Republican mail-in ballot holders received flyers encouraging a write-in vote for “Neil Smith” in the June 2025 mayoral primary. This raises concerns, as 100 write-in votes could place Smith on the November ballot, potentially creating a three-way race that might confuse voters. As a candidate for mayor, I’m committed to fair elections and want to share these concerns to keep voters informed.

The Neil Smith Flyer: Cause for Concern?

The flyer promotes “Neil Smith,” a name associated with a Gloucester Township address shared by Amy LaConte Smith, who has appeared in past election discussions. Voter records show two individuals named Neil Smith—a father and son—registered at this address, and it’s unclear which is referenced. Amy LaConte Smith ran for Camden County Freeholder in 2016 and 2018, where critics, including congressional candidate Alex Law, questioned whether she was a “phantom candidate”—someone listed on ballots with limited campaign activity, possibly to influence outcomes. In 2016, she appeared alongside Thomas Stearns, as noted by Politico, under slogans like “Democrats for the People.” Similar questions arose in 2018, though no violations were confirmed.

The flyer’s push for Neil Smith, who has no visible campaign or platform and does not appear to vote regularly based on public records, prompts questions about its intent. It was reviewed that Amy LaConte Smith’s past petitions and observed recurring signatures from individuals active in local politics, which may suggest coordination. Public reports, such as a 2019 Inquirer article, have noted Camden County’s history of using lesser-known candidates to shape ballot dynamics, a practice seen as early as 2010. The flyer’s purpose remains unclear, but its timing merits attention.

How This Approach Might Affect the Election

New Jersey law allows a write-in candidate to secure a general election ballot spot with 100 primary votes for municipal races like Gloucester Township’s mayor (N.J.S.A. 19:15-28). The flyer targets Republican voters, who might assume Smith is a GOP candidate. A third name in November could divide votes, potentially altering the race’s outcome. If deliberate, this approach may prioritize strategy over voter clarity.

Camden County’s Election Practices

Camden County has faced questions about complex ballot strategies. A 2019 Inquirer article described candidates like Jason Witte, who acknowledged minimal effort in a freeholder race, raising concerns about ballot clutter. In 2022, South Jersey Progressive Democrats challenged petitions from Ann Klein and Anthony Ferrante over signature issues, though no changes followed. These examples, reported by credible sources, highlight election practices my campaign aims to address through openness.

My Pledge for a Fair Election

I’m running to represent every Gloucester Township resident, not just a select few. This flyer follows other challenges, like unfounded rumors about employee cuts and police support. My team is reviewing the flyer’s distribution and funding, and we’ll share findings transparently. If evidence indicates improper conduct, we’ll refer it to authorities like the Camden County Clerk’s Office or the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (NJELEC).

How You Can Support a Fair Process

Voters deserve clear elections. Here’s how you can help:

Stay Informed: Share this article and discuss it with neighbors. Follow our Facebook Page Link, for updates and events like “Coffee with Keith.”
Back Our Campaign: Grassroots efforts need your support. Donate at gibbonsformayor.com/donation/ for voter outreach and campaign materials.
Explore Oversight: Learn about election oversight at NJELEC’s website www.elec.state.nj.us if you have concerns.
Vote Wisely: In the June primary and November 2025 election, choose Keith Gibbons for a transparent Gloucester Township. Research candidates for an informed vote.

Together, We Can Ensure Fairness

Thank you to the supporters who flagged this flyer. Your engagement strengthens our campaign. Gloucester Township deserves leadership that serves all residents, not one shaped by unclear tactics. Let’s work for a fair election on November 4, 2025.

Opinions expressed reflect the Gibbons campaign’s views based on public reports, news articles and ongoing inquiries. Contact us with information.