Exclusive | Ex-Gambino mobster John Alite — who served time for murders and beatdowns — now a NJ councilman: ‘Here to redeem my whole life’

From Lawbreaker to Lawmaker: The Unlikely Journey of John Alite

John Alite, a former enforcer for the Gambino crime family, has embarked on a remarkable journey from a life of crime to a career in public service. Recently sworn in as a councilman for the quiet New Jersey borough of Englishtown, Alite, 62, is determined to use his past experiences to make a positive impact. Reflecting on his new role, he shared, “I can really do some good. I already had a bad past, and I’m here to redeem my whole life, and I would like to go out doing everything in a positive way.” This transformation is a stark contrast to his earlier life, where he was once a key figure in the criminal underworld, working under infamous mob bosses like John Gotti and his son, John “Junior” Gotti.

A Life of Crime and Redemption

Alite’s past is marked by a long history of violence and crime. He spent 14 years in prison for convictions that included six murders, 37 shootings, and numerous assaults. His role as a top “earner” for the Gambino family in the 1980s and 1990s gave him a deep understanding of the inner workings of power, loyalty, and betrayal. While he acknowledges the treachery and manipulation that defined his time in the mob, he believes these experiences have equipped him with unique insights into politics. “I understand the Machiavelli stuff, the treachery,” he remarked, drawing parallels between the streets and the government. Now, Alite is leveraging this knowledge to navigate the complexities of local politics, aiming to bring his perspective to the table.

A New Chapter in Public Service

Alite’s transition into politics began with his appointment to the Englishtown Borough Council, a position he secured after being recruited by Mayor Daniel Francisco and other local leaders. Despite initial skepticism from some council members, Alite’s dedication to civic work, particularly his efforts to help local youths, won over many critics. He was appointed to fill a vacancy through the end of the year, and his seat is secured until 2027 unless someone challenges him in the upcoming election. Confident in his popularity and influence, Alite believes he would be “hard to beat” in a race, citing his widespread recognition and active involvement in community events and motivational speaking engagements.

A Platform of Hope and Redemption

At the heart of Alite’s political platform is a commitment to tackling the issues that once defined his life—crime, drugs, and youth empowerment. His personal experiences, including the tragic loss of his 30-year-old daughter, Chelsea, who died from a fentanyl overdose, have fueled his determination to address the drug epidemic in Monmouth County. Alite is also a strong advocate for after-school programs aimed at keeping children off the streets and away from harmful influences. He has visions of redefining Englishtown’s landscape through downtown development and community engagement, earning him praise from Mayor Francisco, who described him as “instrumental” to the borough’s future.

A Controversial Figure in the Spotlight

While Alite’s story of redemption has inspired many, it has also drawn criticism. Junior Gotti, his former friend and mob associate, has publicly denounced him, calling him “one of the most shameless human beings that God has created.” Others have questioned whether a former mobster can truly change his ways. However, Alite remains unapologetic about his past, using it as a tool to connect with at-risk youth and inspire change. He has built a career as a motivational speaker, podcaster, and author, sharing his experiences to warn others about the dangers of a life of crime. Despite his controversial history, Alite’s resolve to make a difference has earned him a measure of trust and respect in his community.

Looking Ahead: A Future in Politics and Beyond

Alite’s sights are set far beyond his current role as a councilman. He has already been approached about running for higher office and has expressed interest in one day campaigning for Congress. He draws inspiration from former President Donald Trump, whom he has supported since 2016 and met on several occasions. While some may doubt his qualifications, Alite argues that his unique life experiences make him more relatable and effective than many traditional politicians. As he navigates this new chapter, Alite remains focused on his mission to redeem himself and leave a lasting legacy. Surrounded by his family during his swearing-in ceremony, he participated in his first council meeting, ready to tackle issues ranging from potholes to public safety. For John Alite, the journey from lawbreaker to lawmaker is just the beginning of his quest to prove that anyone can change their path and make a difference.