Samuel Steps Down as Scotch Plains Democratic Chair

Richard Samuel has stepped down from his position as leader of the Scotch Plains Democrats.

In a release issued Sunday night, the Scotch Plains Democratic Committee announced that Samuel has resigned due to recurring health issues which have interfered with his ability to be involved with day-to-day committee activities. He will leave the post immediately.

Louis Beckerman, vice chair of the committee, has taken over Samuel's responsibilities.

"I am sorry that Dick resigned under these circumstances," Beckerman said in the statement. "He served the local party in numerous capacities over the years and was involved in national politics prior to his local involvement. We wish him well and hope that he continues to be interested in Scotch Plains government."

According to the release, Beckerman and his wife, Ann, have lived in Scotch Plains for the last 30 years. He has served the local party as a committee member and has been active in supporting local election campaigns, including most recently Theresa Mullen's bid for council.

"We are fortunate to have a dedicated base of politically active Democrats who have and continue to be supportive of our committee's efforts over the years," Beckerman said. "As the new chairman of the Scotch Plains Democratic Committee, my goal is work with our committee people and encourage others to become involved to continue to reinvigorate the local party."

Beckerman is President of Beckerman & Company, an general insurance and Risk Management consulting firm with offices in Colonia, Forked River and Linden. He serves as risk manager and insurance broker for Union City, the Borough of Fanwood, the Township of Green Brook, Roselle Borough Public Schools. Mr. Beckerman is also a Commissioner of the New Jersey Intergovernmental Insurance Fund. He is a past President of the Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey and named Professional Insurance Agent of the Year by that organization in 2008. He received his Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter designation in 1984 and Certified Insurance Counselor designation in 1992.

Beckerman was appointed by Governor Corzine to serve as a member of the New Jersey-Israel Trade Commission. He is past president of Congregation Beth Israel, Co-Chair of Jewish Federation of Central New Jersey's Community Relations Council, past vice president of the Jewish Community Center of Central NJ and past vice president of the YM-YWHA of Union County.

The Beckermans have two children, Michael, of Rahway, an account executive at Beckerman & Company, and Sara, who is pursuing a doctorate in Audiology at Northwestern University.