Politics & Government

Poll: Does Vaughan's Resignation Tarnish His Reputation?

Borough mayor steps down one day after losing bid for re-election.

When Chatham Patch readers learned of from the role of mayor a day after , reactions varied from grateful to disappointed. 

Vaughan told Chatham Patch he was stepping down in order to prepare for the birth of his first grandchild, due next month. In his letter to Borough Clerk Susan Caljean on Wednesday, he said, "The reality was clear to me after my loss on Tuesday evening that I have neglected my familial duties and [I realize] now more than ever that they are the signle most important priority in my life."

Councilman and Mayor-Elect Bruce Harris is currently the acting mayor, in the absence of Council President James Lonergan who is out of the state on vacation.

Find out what's happening in Chathamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Chatham Patch user drew a comparision to the schoolyard. "He didn't win, so he's taking his ball and going home. Chatham has quite obviously made the right choice by sending him packing," she said.

said Vaughan's move "doesn't make sense. As a lame duck, it's not like he was going to be making major policy decisions or working 18 hour days on the transition. His reasons are his own, but the stated reason is suspect."

Find out what's happening in Chathamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

User said, "I think we should all move on, and thank Nelson for his efforts. As far as commitment, I certainly feel Nelson had it and should be thanked for his time as Mayor."

In a moderately self-fulfilling statement, said, "Well this is what made Chatham great, judging and nitpicking anonymously. I don't blame Nelson for stepping out rather than listening to this prattle. If you want career politician you got it in Harris. I happen to think Nelson was the best kind of politician, one who did the job even though he didn't like it and knew when to get out."

was displeased with Vaughan's decision. "[W]hy would Vaughn resign with 6 weeks left. Now the town has to go through the trouble of selecting and swearing in a new mayor. ... I did not have any complaints about Vaughn's tenure, just his early resignation," they wrote.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Chatham