State Committee

LeRoy J. Jones, Jr. has excelled both as an elected official and as an executive during his distinguished career of more than 30 years. He has served in the New Jersey State Assembly, on the Essex County Commissioner Board, and as East Orange city administrator. During his time in the private sector, he developed and implemented successful operational planning and strategies. LeRoy brings this wide range of experience to 1868 Public Affairs which enables him to effectively represent clients’ interests at all levels of government.

Marguerite M. Schaffer is the President and Managing Principal at Shain Schaffer PC, a law firm located in Bernardsville, New Jersey. She specializes in commercial litigation; land use; real estate and banking law. Ms. Schaffer, who currently serves as Chair of the Somerset County Democratic Committee was elected as a Delegate to the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Democratic National Conventions. 

Claribel Azcona-Barber was elected as NJDSC Secretary on June 17, 2021. She serves as a Middlesex County Commissioner and is the first Dominican woman in the state to be elected to that position. After immigrating to the United States at the age of 19, Claribel settled in New Brunswick and became involved in local campaigns, government and public service. She works as a management specialist in the office of New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill.

Shantè is an experienced public affairs executive, community advocate and adjunct professor. Her tenure in government, community relations, higher education and grassroots campaigns spans over 15 years and demonstrates exceptional experience and professional distinction. By training and professional principle, Shantè serves the public interest by acting as a responsible advocate to provide a voice in the marketplace of ideas, facts, and viewpoints that aid informed public debate and decision making. Her current positions and previous experience exemplify her dedication and demonstrated ability to lead others through influence and collaboration.