The Bensalem Democratic Organization (BDO) announced their endorsed candidates for Mayor and Council, and Bensalem voters will be pleased to see some familiar names on the ballot, officials said.
BDO Chairperson Bryan Allen announced that Stephanie Ferrandez will be running for Mayor, and Jesse Sloane, Ed Tokmajian, and Joseph Wenzel Jr. will be running for Council. Also on the ticket are Santos Ramos and Zach Winters, running for Treasurer and Auditor respectively.
Ferrandez, an attorney operating her own law practice here in Bensalem, is serving her second term on the Bensalem School Board. “We are at a turning point in Bensalem,” said Ferrandez. “If we don’t take steps now to create a vibrant small business community, which is family friendly and rooted in assuring a safe, small town feel, then we will be overrun by opportunistic development, discarded buildings, and vape shops.”
“On the School Board, Stephanie has been a clear voice for improving transparency,” said Allen. “She’s known for consistently demanding answers on behalf of the community, most recently, insisting on transparency and consideration of what the taxpayers can bear when considering the possible middle school construction project.”
When asked why she is challenging a 32-year incumbent for Mayor of Bensalem, Ferrandez said, “I’ve realized that to ultimately achieve the best for our kids, we must improve the whole Township.” She highlights the need for a comprehensive planning process—one that’s proactive and forward looking. “As a Township, we should be planning ahead. Everything from proactively revitalizing the Neshaminy Mall properties, to bringing in social opportunities for young adults, teens and families, such as a community indoor sports and pool complex.”
Ferrandez isn’t the only name voters will recognize on their ballots come Election Day. Former Council members Jesse Sloane and Ed Tokmajian are seeking election for another term on the Township Council. They’re joined by Union carpenter Joseph Wenzel Jr.
“Jesse and I were very productive during our first term on Council,” said Tokmajian. “We preserved more than 25 acres of open space, supported sensible development projects while pushing back on ones that did not benefit residents. We strived to make sure that residents‘ tax dollars were put to good use by supporting our first responders and ensuring those services were well-funded.”
Sloan and Tokmajian lost to current Republican Council member Stacy Champion and Michelle Benitez in the 2021 Municipal Election.
“The experience Ed and I have working to improve township services, prioritizing the safety and security of our community, combined with Joe Wenzel’s energy and work ethic, will be that spark that drives Bensalem forward,” added Sloane. “We’re all raising families here, which is why we are deeply invested in ensuring the brightest possible future for Bensalem.”


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