A New Jersey school board race was thrown into turmoil after a candidate was exposed for sending vulgar and threatening text messages about a sitting board member.
Photos circulating on social media show Marlboro Board of Education candidate Scott Semaya typing offensive remarks about Danielle Bellomo, a conservative board member, in a group chat labeled “ThisBitchNeedsToDie.” The leaked images appeared to capture Semaya writing a sexual comment during a board meeting in July.
The revelations triggered outrage across Marlboro, an affluent Monmouth County suburb, and prompted local authorities to launch an investigation. Semaya, 38, later announced his withdrawal from the race, citing “family circumstances.” His running mate, Melissa Goldberg, also ended her campaign, though their names will remain on the ballot.
Bellomo, 38, described the experience as “absolutely terrifying,” explaining that she was shocked when she learned about the messages. “It sent chills down my spine,” she said, adding that she believes she was targeted for her political beliefs. Bellomo is known locally as a vocal advocate for parental rights and a supporter of President Donald Trump.
The controversy has widened as residents call for the resignation of Chad Hyett, the board’s vice president, who was allegedly part of the chat group. Hyett did not respond to requests for comment. Bellomo also mentioned she has a protective order against another person, reportedly in the group.
Marlboro Schools Superintendent Michael Ballone affirmed that the district takes safety seriously. “We have an invaluable relationship with our local police department who attends our Board of Education meetings,” he noted.
Mayor Jonathan Hornik condemned the messages as “completely unacceptable,” stressing that those involved “are clearly not equipped to hold public office.”
