Rating Explanation
Douglas Albrecht
Douglas Albrecht is a two-term incumbent seeking a third term on the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners. He’s an active, visible figure in local politics,
regularly attending Republican breakfasts, participating in county events, and co-hosting a weekly radio show. His biography on the Republican Party’s website
identifies key issues he’s involved with—such as public health, literacy, income inequality, taxation, tourism, and infrastructure projects like the county park system.
Unlike some candidates who remain largely invisible, Albrecht is clearly engaged. He mentions real problems and references specific efforts he’s been involved in,
giving voters the impression that he has his finger on the pulse of county concerns. But despite this, his messaging stops short of full transparency.
His current communications are spread across scattered formats—radio segments, public bios, and in-person comments at GOP events. There’s no comprehensive, easily
accessible platform where voters can review his stances, see his legislative priorities, or understand how his proposals compare with those of his opponents.
For example:
- He identifies persistent problems like poor health and low literacy, but doesn’t explain whether conditions have improved during his tenure or what concrete
next steps he supports.
- He points to issues like tax burden, election costs, and NJDEP constraints, but doesn’t offer forward-looking solutions or acknowledge tradeoffs.
- He celebrates progress like the library renovation and county park momentum, but doesn’t provide context for why these projects were prioritized or how
they’re being evaluated—especially when some critics have questioned their fiscal impact.
To move from “generally visible” to “fully transparent,” the solution is within easy reach:
- A centralized website with clear issue positions and project updates.
- Podcast-style interviews where voters can hear him speak in-depth on priorities.
- Participation in nonpartisan candidate forums to allow for side-by-side comparison.
As a long-serving commissioner who is regularly in the room where decisions are made, Albrecht has the experience and access to articulate a complete case for
reelection—but that case should be laid out comprehensively in a centralized location like a website that meets modern voters expectations.
For these reasons, Albrecht currently receives an “average to above average” transparency rating—with the understanding that a few focused improvements could put him
in the top tier of voter accessibility and accountability.
Click the red x at the top of this box and then scroll down down for more in-depth information and sources.