Absecon, New Jersey
Moving Absecon
Forward — Together
We're your neighbors, your friends, your community. Join us in building an Absecon that works for everyone — one conversation, one vote, one step at a time.
Why We're Running
We are running for Absecon City Council because we believe every resident deserves to feel heard, represented, and connected to their local government. With proven leadership, public service, and community involvement — we will be working for you.
"Together, we are committed to building an Absecon that works for every resident — not just at election time, but every single day."
Protecting Taxpayers & Promoting Affordability
Responsible budgeting that supports residents by encouraging thoughtful local business development and sustainable growth.
Practical Solutions, Not Politics
Focused on getting things done and addressing real community needs — putting residents first in every decision.
A Thriving Community for Families
Honoring the small-town character of Absecon while investing in safe neighborhoods, community connection, and opportunities for future generations.
Keeping Absecon Strong
Preserving the safe, family-friendly community we all value.
We would be honored to earn your support as we work together for the future of Absecon.
Meet the Candidates
Real Absecon residents running for real change. Get to know the people who want to represent you.
Maria Prete
Maria Prete is a dedicated community advocate, experienced business operations leader, and proud resident of Absecon. Deeply rooted in South Jersey, Maria was raised in Collingswood, where she learned the foundational values of hard work, neighborly support, and treating every individual with dignity and respect.
The proud daughter of an immigrant and a U.S. Marine, Maria understands the profound meaning of service and sacrifice. Her commitment to community and faith is reflected in her active participation as a parishioner at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church.
Maria brings a wealth of real-world leadership experience to local governance. Following a successful career in transportation, hospitality, and lodging operations, she retired from Walt Disney World in 2022 and returned home to South Jersey. Throughout her career, Maria managed complex budgets, collaborated on strategic growth plans and led quality improvement projects. A former member of the Transportation Communications Union (TCU), she is a strong believer in the power of developing partnerships across diverse teams to achieve a common goal.
Maria believes that local government should be transparent, accessible, and highly responsive to the everyday needs of its residents. She is running to ensure Absecon remains a fiscally responsible, safe, and vibrant community, combining her extensive corporate budgeting skills with a deep passion for preserving the local charm that makes the city special for future generations.
In her personal time, Maria can be found cheering on her favorite Philly sports teams, working in her garden and spending time with her wife and their two very spoiled English bulldogs.
Gloria Seel
Gloria Seel is a dedicated healthcare leader, licensed clinician, and community advocate running for Absecon City Council, Ward 2. With more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health leadership, Gloria brings a strong track record of strategic planning, financial management, team leadership, and community-focused problem-solving.
Gloria oversees complex operations focused on improving the health and well-being of individuals and families across the region. She earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Denver, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), and has dedicated her career to helping people navigate challenges while leading high-performing teams through growth, innovation, and change.
Raised in Atlantic County, Gloria and her wife are proud to call Absecon home, where they are raising their son and building a future rooted in community, family, and opportunity.
As a candidate for City Council, Gloria will focus on three key priorities:
- Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency: Ensuring taxpayer dollars are managed wisely, responsibly, and openly.
- Affordability & Economic Growth: Supporting residents while encouraging thoughtful local business development and sustainable growth.
- A Thriving Community for Families: Preserving the small-town character of Absecon while investing in safe neighborhoods, community connection, and opportunities for future generations.
Gloria is known for her collaborative leadership style and practical problem-solving approach. She is committed to listening to residents, building partnerships, and ensuring that Absecon remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
Everything You Need to Vote
Voting is your voice. We've put together answers to the most common questions so you can vote with confidence.
Absecon Vote-By-Mail Drop Box
Absecon Municipal Complex
500 Mill Rd.
Absecon, NJ 08201
Get Involved
Help our party and meet like-minded neighbors.
Local Government 101
Learn how local government in Absecon works by clicking here.
Volunteer
Our party needs volunteers to help with registering voters, signing them up to Vote by Mail, helping with events, and promoting candidates running for election. Call or email us to sign up.
Contact us to sign upShare Our Social Media Content
Spread the word about our party and candidates by sharing our content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Make a Donation or Attend a Fundraiser
Help defray our operational costs. We can use any amount of money from $1 on up! Click here to donate.
A list of upcoming fundraisers can be found here.
Run for Elected Office
We are always looking for dedicated members of the community to serve as candidates at all levels of municipal government — mayor, council person, and school board. We will get you up-to-speed on the relevant issues and guide you on how to run an effective campaign. Email us a resume and a cover letter and we will be in touch about setting up an interview.
Email us your resumeFrequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Absecon Democrats, our candidates, and how to participate in the 2026 City Council election.
Who are the Absecon Democrats running for City Council?
Maria Prete and Gloria Seel are the Absecon Democrats running for City Council in 2026. Maria is a community advocate and retired business operations leader who spent her career in transportation, hospitality, and lodging. Gloria Seel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 20 years of behavioral health leadership experience.
When is the Absecon City Council election?
The Absecon City Council election is on November 3, 2026. Absecon residents can vote for Maria Prete and Gloria Seel on Election Day, during the Early Voting period, or by mail-in ballot.
How can I register to vote in Absecon, NJ?
You can register to vote in Absecon by completing the Atlantic County Voter Registration Application. Visit our Election Help Center above for a direct link to the registration form, or contact the Atlantic County Clerk's office.
Where is the Vote-By-Mail drop box in Absecon?
The Vote-By-Mail drop box in Absecon is located at the Absecon Municipal Complex, 500 Mill Rd., Absecon, NJ 08201. Visit our Election Help Center for all Atlantic County drop box locations.
When and where do the Absecon Democrats meet?
The Absecon Democratic Club holds meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at 6:00 PM at the Absecon American Legion on New Jersey Avenue. All Absecon residents are welcome — come as you are.
How can I get involved with the Moving Absecon Forward campaign?
You can volunteer, donate, share our social media content, or attend a club meeting. We need help registering voters, organizing events, and promoting our candidates. Email [email protected] or call (609) 641-3150 to get started.
Contact Us
Have a question, want to volunteer, or just want to say hello? We'd love to hear from you.
Club Meetings
Second Tuesday of Every Month
All Absecon residents are welcome. Come as you are.