Photo: Sussex County, NJ
The political landscape of Sussex County is in turmoil as Commissioner Bill Hayden faces increasing pressure to resign following allegations of stolen valor. The controversy has garnered attention from political leaders across party lines, both at the state and national levels.
Hayden is accused of falsely claiming service as a Navy SEAL and a Marine. These allegations have been substantiated by investigations conducted by the Navy, confirming that Hayden has never served as a Navy SEAL.
The calls for Hayden's resignation have resonated far beyond Sussex County, with Democratic Congressmen Josh Gottheimer and Andy Kim, Republican Congressman Tom Kean, First Lady Tammy Murphy, and leadership from both the Democratic and Republican parties in Sussex County voicing their concerns.
Hayden hails from Frankford and was elected as a commissioner in 2022. He served as the Commissioner liaison for the municipalities of Newton, Hampton, and Fredon in 2023. Prior to being elected, he held several roles in the New Jersey state government, according to his LinkedIn profile.
The Sussex County GOP Committee has also urged Hayden to step down from his position. If Hayden refuses to resign, there is potential for a petition to initiate a recall election.
Hayden has remained silent thus far about the specifics of his military service since the controversy came to light.