South Toms River Mayor's Race Comes Down to a Single Vote

South Toms River's mayoral election remains unresolved, with Democratic challenger Gigi Esparza holding a one-vote lead over Republican incumbent Oscar Cradle as officials review outstanding ballots.

Esparza leads 436-435, according to the latest results reported by the New Jersey Globe. The tally is unofficial, and neither candidate has been declared the winner.

The Globe reports that twelve ballots remain outstanding, including one awaiting processing and eleven provisional ballots. Provisional ballots are subject to review and will not necessarily all be counted.

The number of votes still in play is not certain. Voters who receive cure letters may also have an opportunity to correct problems with mail-in ballots, and the report does not establish how many such ballots could affect the outcome.

Cradle is seeking another four-year term. Esparza previously served as an appointed mayor and was the Democratic nominee for State Assembly in the 10th District in 2025.

The borough has dealt with an exceptionally close election before. A tied 2020 council race led to a court fight and a special election in March 2022. That history does not mean this mayoral race will follow the same path, but the present one-vote margin leaves room for a recount or challenge.

The final result depends on the remaining ballot reviews and certification by Ocean County election officials.