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Murphy’s proposed new ‘fun tax’ meets resistance

by BusinessEntertainmentNorth JerseyPoliticsSports

Murphy’s Proposed New ‘Fun Tax’ Faces Resistance Across the Political Spectrum

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s proposal to introduce a “fun tax” has sparked heated debate, drawing skepticism and opposition from both Democrats and Republicans. The tax, aimed at generating additional revenue for the state, would apply to admission fees at various recreational venues, including batting cages, bowling alleys, go-kart tracks, and other participatory sports facilities. However, the plan has quickly encountered resistance, even from within the Governor’s own party.

The Fun Tax Proposal

The proposed “fun tax” is part of Murphy’s broader fiscal strategy to address New Jersey’s budget shortfall. The Governor’s office has argued that the tax would help level the playing field by ensuring that more entertainment and leisure activities contribute to state revenue. According to the proposal, individuals who pay for entry into a range of recreational activities would be subject to a small surcharge—potentially as much as 5%—added to their bills.

Murphy’s administration argues that these facilities, which generate significant foot traffic and commercial activity, should be included in the state’s efforts to diversify its tax base. The revenues from the “fun tax” would be earmarked for funding public services, infrastructure improvements, and educational programs, with the state hopeful that these benefits would outweigh the potential downsides.

Bipartisan Skepticism

Despite the Governor’s optimism, the proposal has met considerable resistance, not just from the usual conservative opposition but also from members of his own party. While many Republicans have been quick to criticize the plan, questioning whether it would stifle small businesses and further burden residents, a number of Democrats have raised similar concerns.

Democrats: A Bridge Too Far?

Some Democrats, traditionally in favor of progressive tax policies, have expressed doubts about the fairness and practicality of the “fun tax.” State Senator Loretta Weinberg, a prominent figure in New Jersey politics, voiced her concern that the tax could disproportionately affect middle-class families who view recreational activities as affordable leisure options.

“I worry that this is a step too far in the wrong direction,” said Weinberg. “A tax on something as innocent as a game of bowling or a round of mini-golf could harm working families who rely on these low-cost, fun outlets for recreation. We need to consider the broader social impact of a policy like this.”

Weinberg and other critics within the Democratic Party argue that the state should be focused on creating more equitable tax solutions rather than adding burdens to local businesses and consumers seeking low-cost entertainment options.

Republicans: A Step Too Far in Government Overreach

On the other side of the aisle, Republicans have been adamantly opposed to Murphy’s proposal, viewing it as another example of government overreach. State Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips, a Republican from Bergen County, warned that the tax could create unnecessary hurdles for New Jersey’s economy, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“After everything the state has been through, the last thing we need is to add a tax on fun,” DePhillips said in a statement. “This will hurt small businesses that depend on foot traffic, and at the end of the day, it will be regular people who will end up paying the price.”

DePhillips is not alone in this sentiment. Several Republican lawmakers have pointed to the adverse impact such a tax might have on family-owned businesses, particularly in lower-income areas where affordable recreational activities are crucial to local economies.

Broader Economic Implications

The broader question that both political sides are grappling with is whether the “fun tax” is a fair and sustainable solution to New Jersey’s budget woes. Critics argue that taxing recreational activities, which are often seen as a form of low-cost entertainment, could unintentionally harm businesses that are already struggling to stay afloat in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Additionally, some fear that such a tax might send the wrong message to businesses and families in the state. Small businesses, particularly those that operate in the realm of participatory sports like batting cages, bowling alleys, and mini-golf courses, may struggle to absorb the tax without passing the costs on to customers. This could drive prices up and make these activities less accessible to those who need them most.

Political Future of the Fun Tax

While the idea of a “fun tax” may have started as an innovative solution for Murphy’s administration, its future now seems uncertain. As both Republicans and Democrats express concern, it’s possible that the plan will face significant revisions or even be scrapped altogether. The Governor’s office has maintained that it will continue to work with lawmakers across the aisle to find a balanced approach to addressing the state’s fiscal needs without unduly burdening businesses and consumers.

In the meantime, New Jersey residents continue to wait and see whether their state government will move forward with this controversial new tax. With both political parties vocal in their opposition, it remains to be seen whether the “fun tax” will be relegated to the scrapheap of tax proposals or emerge as part of the state’s fiscal future.

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The Return of a Rock Star

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessMusicNorth JerseyPoliticsShopping

Riding on a political and popular high from his 25-hour-and-5-minute speech in the US Senate, Cory Booker held a town hall Saturday at Bergen Community College to an enthusiastic crowd. In the lead-up to the senator’s arrival, New Jersey spirit was high, with music from New Jersey artists Whitney Houston, Jon Bon Jovi, Gloria Gaynor, and Bruce Springsteen playing.

In the front row was former State Senator Loretta Weinberg who came to the town hall with her neighbors. She had been with them earlier in the morning holding signs and demonstrating as part of a nation-wide April 5 “Hands Off” protest against the Trump administration.

“Our theme this morning was if we 80- and- 90-year-olds can get off our duffs, your generation better stand up and protect our democracy,” she told Insider NJ. “So much of this bubbled up from the bottom and there was this thirst, I think, for leadership. Cory Booker stepped into that vacuum not only with the filibuster that he did, but the words that it was filled with. When people get up to do a filibuster, they sometimes read from the phone book or the encyclopedia or whatever. He spoke for 25 hours about why we should be protecting our democracy against Donald J. Trump, and that was the most moving part of this whole thing for us. I say all of this bubbled from the bottom up, and now I’m glad to see somebody from our own state of New Jersey filling this vacuum and he did it in an appropriate, dramatic way.”

One of Booker’s staff members said that about 1,100 people registered to attend the town hall. People in the audience were generally dressed for the cold, rainy weather, although many took to opportunity to express themselves with their clothes. Some attendees had “Harris-Walz” baseball hats, LGBTQ pride-themed shirts, some wore camouflage, some had shirts in support of teachers, many wore veterans caps. One shirt read “You’re Probably DEI, too,” in reference to the Trump administration’s executive orders reversing and erasing diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco welcomed Senator Booker when he arrived on stage, delivering his own remarks before the senator began. “I’m thrilled that he’s here today coming to the largest community college in the state of New Jersey,” Tedesco said to Insider NJ. “This is where people get to express themselves and learn. How great is it that Cory Booker, who espouses those same things, those same principles, is here at this facility saying those things now to the people here today? I’m excited and I’m thankful for what Senator Booker did, and I’m just happy to be able to welcome him here today and to tell him ‘job well done’.”

Tedesco would later say that the senator’s speech was “amplifying the voices of his constituents and Americans across the nation as he stood up for what is right.”

A repeated theme at the town hall, said by both Booker and Tedesco, was “the power of the people is greater than the people in power.”

Booker thanked Tedesco for his introduction and called him a personal friend, one who had encouraged his first foray into politics.

The address was immediately disrupted by protestors who shouted at Booker regarding the war in Gaza, slamming his support for Israel.

One man in the bleachers banged his cane, shouting “Decorum! Wait your turn!”

About five protestors in total were escorted out by police without incident from the auditorium. Booker said that he respected their opinions and right to express them, but that it was not right to deprive the audience of their opportunity to be part of the town hall.

There were no further disruptions after the fifth protestor was led out, and the senator wrapped up his introduction to take questions from the audience.

Questions covered a number of topics and concerns, but one of the salient issues brought up by parents of children with disabilities, a nurse, and others, was funding cuts to Medicaid and Medicare. With millions of Americans reliant on these programs, the Republican plan to cut $880 Billion from the budget would imperil their lives and livelihood, with many people wholly reliant on these services due to their life circumstances.

Booker said that these cuts would put American families who are struggling into crisis. He said, “The greatest poverty in America is a poverty of empathy,” condemning the cuts to these programs, not only as cruel to those who need them, but also bad economics.

If families can take care of their loved ones at home with Medicare and Medicaid, then that is a greater savings to the alternatives, such as looking for services outside the home, or the catastrophic consequences which would follow if those were not available, either.

The senator said more than once that residents were “blessed” to live in a state such as New Jersey, but that did not negate or lessen their struggles. Americans in rural and economically depressed areas are even more reliant on Medicare and Medicaid, and will be among the hardest hit by such cuts.

Booker said that 40% of women who have babies in America rely on Medicaid. With 80,000 staff being cut from the Veterans Affairs, it will be that much harder for women veterans having children.

With the Department of Education’s dismantlement a top priority of the Trump administration, members of the audience wanted to know what they could do to protect special needs students and programs which rely on DoE funding. The senator encouraged organizations in New Jersey to reach out to his staff on how to partner up, acknowledging that the situation is dire.

On affordability, one of the chief concerns among all New Jerseyans who live in a state with some of the highest taxes in the nation, Booker agreed. “We pay too much in taxes!” Booker slammed the president for taking away the SALT deductions in his first administration, something which would save New Jersey homeowners money if restored.

In 2021, during the Biden Administration, members of New Jersey’s Democratic House delegation had leveraged SALT, tying their support for a budget reconciliation package with legislation that would support SALT’s restoration.

Affordability in New Jersey is critical, he said, because it means the “difference between being able to survive or thrive.

On federal taxes, he said, “New Jersey gets back seventy cents for every dollar” sent to Washington DC. But he also acknowledged the math of the Congress with a Republican-crafted budget slashing billions in governmental spending while carving out huge tax breaks for the most wealthy percentage of the population. “We don’t have the numbers.” What is needed, he said, is for at least three Republicans to break with Trump. He cited the 4 GOP dissenters in the Senate as a hopeful sign when they joined Democrats to oppose tariffs with Canada.

A question came to the senator asking him what he would say to young people who are turned off to the idea of running for office in the current climate. To this, Booker said that there is a streak of authoritarianism running through the country. He said that American greatness is “how we overcome hate.” To the youth, he said, “we are desperate for your leadership… this is your time to stand up now.”

Many of the questions asked included, in some form or another, a question of, “what can we do?” Which is to say, what can regular people do, given the mathematical minority status of the Democratic party in Congress? To that end, Booker said Republicans face enormous pressure from the administration’s bullying, and the threat of being primaried with financial support from the world’s richest man, Elon Musk, keeping them largely in line. Popular pressure from their constituents was therefore essential to get Republicans to “crack,” as he said. The special elections in Florida to fill Gaetz’s and Waltz’s seats went to Republican successors, but what should’ve been easy wins saw Democrats make strident gains in those districts. Musk weighing into Wisconsin’s Supreme Court election failed, with voters choosing a liberal-leaning judge over Musk’s conservative favorite.

When asked about cuts to research and development, Booker said it was not fiscally responsible to make cuts where the investments are outpaced by the gains. He said that while the US was chopping scientific and medical research, China was “doubling down” and positioning itself to replace the US as a global leader in these sectors.

On New Jersey’s governor race, he said that it was “vital” and emphasized the need for engagement on the local level, where political discourse is shaped. He did not endorse any particular candidate for governor.

Cory Booker ran in the 2020 presidential primary election, although his campaign failed to generate much traction at the time. During a period when popular frustration is rising, Booker may have made himself something of a political lightning rod amid the less-inspiring old wing of the Democratic federal leadership. Whether or not Booker will ride a “moment” that could become a “movement” has yet to be seen. He said he intends to run for re-election to the US Senate in 2026, avoiding a question as to whether or not he might run for president again. Three years in America is a political eternity, and in an era where political norms have been up-ended, anything is possible.

 

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Cory Booker and the Beginning of What

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessMusicPolitics

PARAMUS – His voice rising in sync with the cheering crowd, Cory Booker was barreling toward a big finish.

“This is the beginning,” he said to about 1,000 people at a town hall at Bergen Community College.

Rock music played. Audience members crowded around the senator, many posing for selfies.

The beginning? Of what?

That poses another question.

Has Cory Booker, the man from nearby Harrington Park, become the face of the Democratic party and its resistance to Donald Trump?

A week ago, no one would have asked that. All that changed last Monday when Booker commanded the Senate floor at 7 p.m and spoke until 8 p.m. Tuesday, a full 25 hours of words and words and words condemning the Trump administration.

For two months. Dems and their supporters have been searching for ways to fight back. Over the last six days, they may have found it. Of course, it’s not all Booker.

Liberals had a big win in Wisconsin’s judicial race and Trump’s tariffs prompted nearly a 4,000 point drop in the stock market in just two days. Economic uncertainty lies ahead.

Booker’s oratory began the week, which made Saturday’s event quite the celebration.

It was a “town hall,” but it seemed like a campaign rally. By the time the senator sauntered through the door and was formally introduced, he already had received two standing ovations.

Most of the questions were from residents concerned about cuts for special education and health services.

One woman said her autistic son depends on care only Medicaid provides. She was not alone. Others said they were in a similar predicament.

Booker at times left the stage to speak face-to-face with audience members.

There were no challenging, or nasty, questions, but there were some disturbances.

At least five people – one right after the other – screamed at Booker over his support for Israel.

“God bless you,” Booker said in response. He praised the democratic spirit, but said this was not a time for telling.

Police removed all the protesters, some of whom then demonstrated outside in support of the Palestinian cause.

This was an open forum, so any of the protesters could have simply questioned Booker about the Middle East. Apparently, however, some think screaming from the cheap seats is more effective.

As the program resumed, Booker said this year’s gubernatorial election is “vital,” but that he will not endorse a candidate in the primary.

Speaking of elections, there, naturally, was political talk after his speech of Booker running for president in 2028.

Booker did run for president in 2020, but his campaign just never caught fire.

One criticism was that he spoke too much about love and brotherhood, sounding at times more like a preacher than a politician.

Booker still does that, but has now seemingly adopted a harder edge.

“The worst thing you can do is piss off a New Jerseyan,” he said.

He railed against the “autocracy” of Donald Trump and did not disagree when an audience member said he thought he was living in the Weimar Republic.

Just before he left the stage, he said people don’t have to stand for 25 hours, but they should stand for something.

One woman made a comment that probably summed up the feelings of many in the room – and perhaps across the nation.

She said she was feeling hopeless, but now she’s been “recharged.”

Booker

 

 

 

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Millburn Republicans: Why We Are Supporting Senator Jon Bramnick in the GOP Primary for Governor

by BusinessCentral JerseyExplore New JerseyPolitics

Senator Jon Bramnick has made a genuine effort to listen to Millburn-Short Hills residents and taxpayers—and he’s placed our township’s critical needs at the forefront of his campaign.

From the beginning, Jon Bramnick has led the Republican gubernatorial charge against overdevelopment. Hailing from Westfield, Jon knows our community and the fabric that makes us whole. He has a strong record of representing us in the state legislature.

Like hundreds of other New Jersey communities, Millburn-Short Hills is being held hostage by a deeply flawed Affordable Housing Law—passed solely by Democrats and signed by Governor Murphy in 2024. Even before that, Trenton Democrats empowered the unelected, unaccountable Fair Share Housing Center—whose funding appears to come largely from developers—to dictate housing policy in our towns under the guise of “affordable housing.”

This group is not elected, not transparent, and not accountable to us—yet it has more say over our future than our own mayors, councils, or residents.

We’ve lost our say in how we want to live. We’ve lost local control over planning and development. Politicians and developers have hijacked our towns.

Jon Bramnick is from a community that has been hit hard by these unfair housing mandates—a stark contrast to the Democratic candidates, who come from places conveniently exempt from affordable housing mandates like Montclair and Jersey City. While they lecture suburban towns, their own communities aren’t subject to the rules they’re forcing on us.

Enough is enough.

We need seasoned, proven leadership—and Senator Jon Bramnick is the right candidate at the right time.

Bramnick is fiscally conservative, socially moderate, and always willing to listen. He has repeatedly won elections in majority-Democratic districts and earned the respect of his colleagues—serving as Assembly Republican Leader (2012–2022), Conference Leader, Whip, and Assistant Whip. You don’t hold leadership roles that long unless you know how to unite people, deliver results, and stand on principle.

Importantly, Bramnick knows how to work across the aisle to get things done—something that will be essential if Democrats retain control of the legislature. He understands that compromise doesn’t mean surrender—it means making real progress without sacrificing core common-sense values.

Governor Murphy has failed to lead. Housing mandates have spiraled out of control. The cost of living is crushing families. Crime is up, and our economy is stalled under sky-high corporate taxes and business-hostile policies. If we continue with one-party rule—or elect a Republican who can’t effectively govern—we risk losing our state for good.

On June 10th, we’re voting for Senator Jon Bramnick because he’s the Republican with the experience, the record, and the temperament to move New Jersey forward.

Jon Bramnick stands for moderate and sensible solutions: 

✔ Safe communities.

✔ Local control.

✔ Lower taxes.

✔ Preserving our Jersey way of life.

Registered Republicans and Independents can vote in the GOP primary on Tuesday, June 10.

Senator Jon Bramnick is our choice for Governor—because New Jersey deserves better. From both sides of the aisle.

 

Jean Pasternak, Chair, Millburn-Short Hills Republican Committee

Frank Saccomandi IV, Millburn Township Committeeman

Ben Stoller, Millburn Township Committeeman

Jamie Serruto, Vote for Millburn Candidate

Puja Parikh, Vote for Millburn Candidate

 

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 4/5/2025

by BusinessCentral JerseyDinersFilm & TVHealth & WellnessJersey ShoreLaw & OrderNorth JerseyPolitics

Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “That case did appear to be a very personal matter. I would say, if we were talking off to the side, that a number of people feel equally aggrieved at the Norcross event, top to bottom.” – Senator Burzichelli to AG Platkin, saying the case was ‘painful to watch’

TOP STORY: In Booker, Democrats Finally Make a Stand

NJ high school graduation rates increased in 2024, and absenteeism dropped, according to NorthJersey.com.

The NJDOH says the state has dropped beneath the herd immunity threshold for measles, according to Politico NJ.

With Senator Booker’s 25-hour floor speech, Democrats made a stand as they seek to find their footing.

Nadine Arslanian Menendez’s trial is delayed by motions and filings, according to NJ Herald.

The push is underway to stop flash mobs and pop-up parties at the Shore, according to NJ Spotlight.

The offshore wind controversy continues at the Jersey Shore, according to TAPinto.

Union County is seeking proposals for the jail property, drawing criticism, according to UC Hawk.

ICYMI: Booker made history; Christie considers Habba, gives guv race perspective

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Here’s a list of every candidate running for Governor and Assembly in the primaries, according to NJ Globe.

Kranjac is eligible for the GOP gubernatorial primary ballot, according to NJ Monitor.

The LD8 legislators endorsed Ciattarelli for Governor.

The gubernatorial field is down to 11 – for now, according to Burlington County Times.

Sussex County Commissioner Hayden won’t be on the GOP primary ballot, according to NJ Herald.

ICYMI: Fulop formally announced Collum as LG pick to strengthen candidacy; Fulop LG names circulating; Sweeney picked fight with Sherrill; notable observations from filing day; source describes GOP guv primary as ‘over’; Russo slammed Spiller; guv primary movements sparked intrigue; Fulop to announce LG pick; Sherrill unveiled ‘Affordability Agenda’; Durr ended guv bid; Pennacchio endorsed Ciattarelli; Wimberly hasn’t decided on guv pick

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Download and read Insider NJ’s Healthcare Power List publication.

AG Platkin was grilled by the Senate Budget Committee, according to NJ Monitor.

The state wants to tax some recreational activities, but some key leaders say no, according to NJ.com.

Legislators say foreign companies shouldn’t have access to state contracts and data, according to NJ.com.

Fiscal experts forecast a bump in near-term tax revenues, according to NJ Spotlight.

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

In Harvey Cedars, a beach project began, according to the Sandpaper.

In Hawthorne, the schools superintendent will retire, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Hoboken, the council approved a measure mandating 10%+ rent hike disclosures, according too Hudson County View.

In Jersey City, 32BJ released mayoral endorsements.

In Millburn, Republicans endorsed Senator Bramnick for Governor.

In Parsippany, the zoning board heard pushback for a mosque’s building plans, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Phillipsburg, five Republicans and four Democrats are running for council according to TAPinto.

In Pompton Lakes, a lawsuit alleges police had a illegal ticket quota, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Ridgewood, an ordinance would ban feeding wildlife on private property, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Randolph, BOE candidates squared off, according to NJ Hills.

In Rockaway, the GOP primary is mired at the moment.

In Ship Bottom, public works projects are springing forward, according to the Sandpaper.

In South Plainfield, a judge tossed a captain’s whistleblower lawsuit, according to MyCentralJersey.

In Summit, the council debated a homelessness ordinance, according to TAPinto.

In Toms River, Ocean County was criticized for bailing out the schools, according to the Asbury Park Press.

In Trenton, the GOTrenton! service is expanding to the entire city, according to the Trentonian.

AROUND THE WEB:

Amid uncertain conditions, NJ lawmakers deliberate $58B budget

Matthew Fazelpoor, NJBIZ

  • Budget season is in full swing in the Garden State, with hearings underway to consider Gov. Phil Murphy’s $58 billion Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal – his final as governor. The Assembly and Senate Budget committees each held public hearings in March, gathering feedback from a wide variety of constituents and groups on a range of issues — from business to K-12 and higher education to health care and more.

April 5 protest takes aim at Trump, DOGE; where are the 24 New Jersey Hands Off protests?

Lori Comstock, USA TODAY NETWORK

  • Two dozen groups have mobilized in New Jersey in advance of a planned nationwide protest against President Donald Trump’s agenda and Elon Musk’s DOGE on Saturday, April 5. The protests, which have been dubbed “Hands Off! National Day of Action,” are centered around taking a stand against Trump and Musk’s recent policy actions on topics including the shuttering of Social Security offices and firing of federal workers.

These are the NJ towns that actually lowered property taxes

Eric Scott, NJ1015

  • New Jersey is infamous for high taxes. When it comes to property taxes, we are a solid number one in the United States. No one else is even close. For the first time, the average property tax bill in New Jersey has topped $10,000.

Overcoming past rivalries, Sayegh, Khairullah endorse Wimberly slate for LD35

Joey Fox, NJ Globe

  • The Passaic County Democratic organization’s chosen slate for the 35th legislative district received endorsements today from Paterson Mayor André Sayegh, whose city is home to a majority of 35th district voters, and two other Passaic County mayors in a show of unity that masks old rivalries and electoral battles within the county.

Affordable Housing: Montclair Seeks Residents’ Opinions as N.J. Split

Matt Kadosh, Montclair Local

  • A recent survey by the FDU Poll found New Jersey voters are split on the topic of government providing builders incentives to construct more housing amid a housing crisis in New Jersey and the nation.

Atlantic County Mayors Association opposes Atlantic City Electric’s proposed rate increases

Access Network

  • The Atlantic County Mayors’ Association recently approved a resolution opposing proposed rate increases by Atlantic City Electric. The resolution calls on the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to reject an additional 8% increase following a 17% hike set to take effect in June.

Assembly members meet with residents opposed to Solberg Airport expansion

NJ Hills

  • State Assembly members from the 16th Legislative District Roy Freiman and Mitchell Drulis, both D-Hunterdon, met on Friday, March 28, with members of the Branchburg/Readington Airport Action Coalition (BRAAC) to discuss the Master Plan for the development of Solberg Airport in Readington Township.

New Jersey Attorney General needs bolder stance when dealing with police time theft

LA Parker, The Trentonian

  • A New Jersey Attorney General release offered this plot line. Susaida Nazario, 44, was charged on March 25 with accepting unlawful benefits as a public servant, theft by deception, two counts of official misconduct, and pattern of official misconduct.

Remembering Judy Kicha, who became a cop in the 1960s, when very few women dared

Matt Fagan, NorthJersey.com

  • Judith Kicha did something very few women did in the 1960s — she was a police officer. The career choice was so rare that at that time, she was only the second woman to be hired as an officer by the city’s police department. On March 27, Kicha died at age 82, leaving behind a legacy of being tough and smashing glass ceilings.

Trenton charter school building ‘Foundation’ for classroom success

LA Parker, The Trentonian

  • A Trenton-based public charter school received high marks in School Performance Reports from the NJ Department of Education. Foundation Academy Charter School headed a list of public charter schoolsenjoying significant classroom achievement.

On anniversary of MLK Jr.’s death, NJ friends and fans recall meeting a civil rights icon

Ricardo Kaulessar, NorthJersey.com

  • Theodora Lacey still displays the Christmas cards that the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. sent her family in her Teaneck home. “I keep them on my bookshelf to look at them often,” Lacey said.

Targeting biomedical research over ‘woke’ policies hurts all of New Jersey

Jen A. Miller, NJ Monitor

  • In February, health experts at Rutgers University published an alarming report: A currently available blood test for Alzheimer’s disease was not accurate in Black patients. The test measures the level of p-Tau217, which is a protein that indicates someone might have Alzheimer’s.

Commemoration of the 160th Anniversary Marking the End of the Civil War to Take Place in Mercer County

Trenton Journal

  • Mercer County will commemorate the 160th anniversary of key events marking the end of the Civil War with a special program on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Mercer Cemetery, located at 43 S. Clinton Avenue, Trenton, NJ.

Odds of NJ surviving an alien invasion

Jeff Deminski, NJ1015

  • Ever see those ridiculous articles that come out when some study or another concludes which state would fare best if a zombie apocalypse happened? Silly, right? I mean we have real issues going on in this country. Are tariffs the way to go? Is Signalgate worthy of a closer look? So this isn’t another silly zombie apocalypse article. No. This is a silly alien invasion article.

Op-Ed: Trump’s tariffs prove he understands how to deal with China

Chris Smith

  • Special thanks to President Trump for demanding fairness and reciprocity in international trade and his strategic vision and actions to reindustrialize our nation, create jobs and boost economic prosperity. Right now, there is one country, above all, which engages in egregiously unfair and predatory trade practices designed not simply to benefit themselves, but to harm our country. That country is the People’s Republic of China under Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party, which racks up ruinous trade deficits with the United States and seeks to undermine our industrial base.

Fact-checking Trump’s US Attorney pick for NJ

Ted Cruz, NJ Spotlight

  • Alina Habba first came to prominence as personal attorney to President Trump during his civil trials for assault and corruption. And all that advocacy for the president has had its benefits, as Habba goes from a modest civil law practice to interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey in the space of a year.

Trump administration suppresses pregnancy risk data

Lilo H. Stainton, NJ Spotlight

  • Early in their effort to reduce racial disparities in maternal deaths, New Jersey officials dove deep into a decades-old dataset to find out why Black mothers were dying at far higher rates than white moms.

Electricity costs will go up in June. Will NJ residents see relief in bills this spring?

Amanda Wallace, NorthJersey.com

  • New Jersey residents have seen sharp increases in their utility costs throughout the last year and monthly bills are not expected to go down any time soon. Instead, many residents across the state can expect a price hike in the coming months, the state Board of Public Utilities announced in February after the state’s annual electricity auction.

Report calls this South Jersey city worst in New Jersey; where is it and what’s wrong?

Lori Comstock, USA TODAY NETWORK

  • A New Jersey city with just over 26,000 residents has been ranked the worst place to live in the Garden State. Financial news site 24/7 Wall St. compiled a list naming the “worst community” in each U.S. state, considering three main categories — economy, community and overall quality of life.

The post Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 4/5/2025 appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Mikie Sherrill detailing ways to fight Donald Trump’s agenda through litigation while reviewing the good news of the week at Town Hall

by Politics

MONTCLAIR – Sherrill Galvanizes Her Supporters at Town Hall, Mikie Sherrill was detailing ways to fight Donald Trump’s agenda through litigation while reviewing the good news of the week. Cory Booker’s marathon Senate speech and the victory of a liberal judge in Wisconsin’s judicial election.

This was a Thursday evening “town hall” and about 400 people were gathered at an auditorium on the Montclair State University campus.

She spoke a day after Donald Trump unveiled multiple tariffs on imports and a few hours after the Stock Market responded by dropping more than 1,600 points. And that drop continued early Friday.

The tariffs, she said, are “going to hurt everyday people.”

We were just a few minutes into things when a man rose – “Andrew from Westfield’ – and said he agreed with how she was fighting Trump in Washington.

So, why are you running for governor? Why not stay in the House and keep doing what you are doing?

There was a smattering of applause.

Sherrill probably knew the question was coming.

She spoke about how she has been rated by some Congressional-watchers as the “most bipartisan member” of the House.

“That has been my reputation in Congress,” she said. “Not standing for the status quo, not afraid to speak truth to power. And, so, that is why I have stood up to run for governor.”

Her answer prompted louder applause than the question.

With that point made, we moved on.

This was a friendly crowd. Most on hand seemed to support Sherrill.

In answering a question about the current climate, she said she thinks Democrats are finally becoming unified around a central premise – the Administration is hurting the economy.

Of course, that’s not good enough.

Democrats are in the minority – not by much, but in the minority still the same.

So, as Sherrill said, they need some Republicans to step up – “a few good men, and women.”

That may not be a totally lost cause. Mitch McConnell, the former Senate Majority Leader, just voted with three other GOP senators and all the Dems in opposition to Trump’s tariffs. That vote, though, was largely symbolic. That measure is unlikely to pass the House.

Digressing a bit, one questioner asked about “corruption” in politics.

Sherrill criticized the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, which allows groups to spend unlimited amounts of money on behalf of a candidate. She acknowledged that she, herself, raises a lot of campaign cash but suggested that at the moment, there’s no other way to do things.

More locally, she spoke of the demise of traditional newspapers and how town councils and school boards are no longer regularly covered. Given the fact, so many councils tend to be all-Democratic or all-Republican, she said lack of a “watchdog” can mean corruption goes unchecked.

The congresswoman was right-on. Corporate-owned daily newspapers, at least in New Jersey, have long abandoned their responsibility to cover local news. But that’s a story for another day.

The post Sherrill Galvanizes Her Supporters at Town Hall appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Platkin Joins Multistate Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Over Unlawful Executive Order Seeking to Impose Sweeping Voting Restrictions

by Law & OrderPolitics

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin today joined a coalition of 19 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, the federal Election Assistance Commission, and other Trump Administration officials over Executive Order No. 14248 (the Elections Executive Order), which imposes sweeping voting restrictions across the country.

Among other things, the Elections Executive Order unlawfully attempts to conscript State election officials in the President’s campaign to impose documentary proof of citizenship requirements when Americans seek to register to vote. It also seeks to upend common-sense, well-established State procedures for counting ballots — procedures that ensure that all eligible voters’ voices are heard.

“This unconstitutional executive order is the most egregious attack on voting rights by a President in our recent history,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy, and we must do everything in our power to safeguard it. This illegal order just does the opposite. The executive order undermines states’ rights to set the laws that govern our elections and is a blatant attack on the constitutional rights of New Jerseyans. Make no mistake: We will fight this unlawful attempt to deny voters their most sacred right.”

The President has no constitutional power to rewrite State election laws by decree, nor does the President have the authority to modify the rules Congress has created for elections. The coalition’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, explains that the power to regulate elections is reserved to the States and Congress, and that the Elections Executive Order violates the Constitution and federal statutes. The attorneys general ask the court to block the challenged provisions of the Elections Executive Order and declare them unconstitutional and void.

The lawsuit filed today includes claims challenging the following provisions of the Elections Executive Order:

 

  • Forcing the Election Assistance Commission (the Commission) to require documentary proof of citizenship on the Federal mail registration form (the Federal Form). The Commission is an independent, bipartisan, four-member body established by Congress. It is responsible for developing the Federal Form, in consultation with the chief election officers of the States, for the registration of voters for elections for Federal office. In their lawsuit, the attorneys general underscore that Congress has never required documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote using the Federal Form.

 

  • Forcing States to alter their ballot counting laws to exclude “absentee or mail-in ballots received after Election Day.” Consistent with federal law, members of the multistate coalition have exercised their constitutional and statutory authority to determine how to best receive and count votes that are timely cast by mail in federal elections. Many of the Plaintiff States, including New Jersey, provide for the counting of timely absentee and mail ballots received after Election Day.

 

  • Requiring military and overseas voters to submit documentary proof of citizenship and eligibility to vote in state elections. The Federal Post Card Application form is used by voters in the military or living abroad to register to vote in federal elections. Federal law unequivocally grants them the ability to register and cast a ballot “in the last place in which the person was domiciled before leaving the United States,” and there is no requirement that this form demand documentary proof of citizenship or proof of current eligibility to vote in a particular state.

 

  • Threatening to withhold various streams of federal funding to the States for purported noncompliance with the challenged provisions. In so doing, the Elections Executive Order seeks to control Plaintiff States’ exercise of their sovereign powers in violation of the law.

 

In filing today’s lawsuit, Attorney General Platkin joins the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.

A copy of the complaint can be found here.

The post Platkin Joins Multistate Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Over Unlawful Executive Order Seeking to Impose Sweeping Voting Restrictions appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Rockaway Republican Primary Mired for the Moment

by Explore New JerseyNorth JerseyPoliticsTechnology & Tech

ROCKAWAY TOWNSHIP – Nominating petitions seem cut and dry. You get enough names, you get on the ballot.

But there are always technicalities.

Tucker Kelley knows that.

Kelley, to put it mildly, has been a political presence in this Morris County town for years. Kelley has his critics, but he also served a 4-year term on the council.

And this year, he’s running again in the June Republican primary for council from Ward 6.

To that end, he is challenging the nominating petitions of his opponent – Rachael Brookes – and three other GOP council hopefuls. He also is challenging some of the petitions of those running for the county committee, but at this point, let’s concentrate on the council, which is more meaningful to the public. The county committee is more of an insiders’ game.

Kelley’s point: The circulator of the above petitions did not sign the required affidavit to that effect.

Moreover, Kelley alleges that some rather comical-looking, hanky-panky took place – namely that some of the candidates tried to fix things by signing an affidavit after the fact and pre-dating it.

Kelley made his concerns known in a letter to Adele Wadleigh, the acting municipal clerk.

She wrote back and said she took “no action” on Kelley’s objections.

Undaunted, Kelley and his lawyer, Walter Luers, are planning to take the matter to court.

For starters, they want to stop the printing and mailing of ballots for the Rockaway Township GOP primary until this gets straightened out.

This is one race in one New Jersey town and, as we know, New Jersey has a lot of towns.

The larger point is that Kelley’s actions tend to keep things on the “straight and narrow.”

You wonder what goes on in towns when no one is watching.

The post Rockaway Republican Primary Mired for the Moment appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Steve Fulop Shakes Up Governor’s Race by Announcing Sheena Collum as Running Mate

by Politics

In a move that defies political tradition, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop officially named Sheena Collum, the mayor of South Orange, as his lieutenant governor running mate—well ahead of the Democratic primary. The announcement, made Wednesday in South Orange, signals Fulop’s commitment to bold, policy-driven leadership and a fresh approach to state governance.

Breaking the Mold in New Jersey Politics

Unlike past gubernatorial candidates who typically wait until after winning the primary to select a running mate, Fulop is charting his own course. His choice of Collum, a fellow mayor known for her hands-on leadership and progressive ideas, reflects a focus on municipal-level problem-solving at a statewide level.

The announcement took place in the lobby of a redeveloped apartment building, which Collum described as a symbol of inclusive housing and smart urban planning—two key issues she and Fulop aim to prioritize.

A Policy-Driven Team with a Vision for New Jersey

Collum wasted no time diving into policy discussions. She emphasized the need for municipal consolidation, pointing out that New Jersey’s 564 municipalities could benefit from more streamlined governance. While merging towns and school districts has long been a contentious issue, Collum made it clear that she and Fulop believe it’s time to take a bold, practical approach to cutting costs and improving efficiency.

Housing policy is another cornerstone of the Fulop-Collum platform. While many initiatives focus on low-income housing, Collum stressed the urgent need for more middle-class housing, advocating for homes priced between $200,000 and $400,000 to support working families.

Transportation also took center stage. As a train rumbled past during the event, Collum addressed the challenges facing New Jersey Transit, calling for a commuter-focused approach. She painted a vivid picture, saying the agency should view a typical rider as a pregnant woman commuting to work and tailor improvements accordingly.

Taking on the Competition

While lieutenant governor candidates don’t typically engage with primary opponents, Collum didn’t hold back when asked about other contenders. She acknowledged Rep. Mikie Sherrill, who currently represents South Orange in Congress, as a strong leader but suggested she would better serve New Jersey by remaining in the House of Representatives.

She also praised Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, who has been a formidable challenger in the race, even jokingly lamenting that New Jersey lacks ranked-choice voting, which would have allowed voters to consider multiple candidates.

A Candid and Accessible Approach

Both Fulop and Collum are positioning themselves as accessible, results-oriented leaders. Collum even offered her personal phone number to reporters, echoing a tactic once used by Kim Guadagno, New Jersey’s first lieutenant governor. The move reflects a willingness to engage directly with the public, a quality that could distinguish her in a race where many voters are unfamiliar with lieutenant governor candidates.

Fulop summed up his choice succinctly:
“We’re partners,” he said, emphasizing that his administration, if elected, would be policy-driven and rooted in a collaboration between urban and suburban leadership.

With the race heating up, Fulop’s unconventional strategy and Collum’s wonk-driven, no-nonsense approach could make them a formidable team in New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial election.

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 4/2/2025

by BusinessCentral JerseyDinersExplore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & WellnessMusicNorth JerseyPoliticsShoppingSouth Jersey

Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

 

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “I’m going to make it clear to the administration — you’ve outlined a bunch of one-offs, fees, revenue enhancements and others in the area of recreation. Some people call them sin taxes. I’m quite confident that this Legislature in our final negotiations will not be including them. They will be eliminated and we … need to propose offsetting revenues for them — whether it’s additional government efficiencies, cuts or lapses.” – Senate Budget Committee Chair Sarlo

 

TOP STORY: The Republican Party Primary Prayer

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Senator Booker made history with the longest floor speech in the Senate, topping 25 hours.

 

Former Governor Christie considers the pick of Alina Habba as US Attorney, and gives his perspective on the gubernatorial primaries.

 

A judge ruled the Mahmoud Khalil case will be decided in NJ, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

A staffer for Senator Booker was arrested for carrying a pistol at the Capitol, according to NJ.com.

 

Rep. Sherrill introduced legislation requiring Elon Musk to pass a drug test to maintain special government employee status.

 

Rep. Pallone will hold a town hall today, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Mayor Fulop will select South Orange Mayor Collum as his LG running mate.

 

The Kranjac petition challenge was settled, according to NJ Globe.

 

In LD32, barbs were traded over a controversial post about Assembly candidate Brennan, according to Hudson County View.

 

Rep. Menendez is staying neutral in Hudson’s Assembly primaries, for now, according to NJ Globe.

 

The NJGOP added voters in March, according to SaveJersey.

 

ICYMI: Fulop LG names circulating; Sweeney picked fight with Sherrill; notable observations from filing day; source describes GOP guv primary as ‘over’; Russo slammed Spiller; guv primary movements sparked intrigue; Fulop to announce LG pick; Sherrill unveiled ‘Affordability Agenda’; Durr ended guv bid; Pennacchio endorsed Ciattarelli; Wimberly hasn’t decided on guv pick

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Download and read Insider NJ’s Healthcare Power List publication.

 

Governor Murphy signed legislation to increase penalties for retail theft, according to TAPinto.

 

The state wants to redefine bribery, according to NJ.com.

 

Budget experts warned of fiscal uncertainty, according to NJ Monitor.

 

Pressure is rising over the Governor’s tax increase proposals, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In Far Hills, a new police chief was named, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Jersey City, Watterman is the first to submit mayoral petitions, according to Hudson County View.

 

In Lumberton, Governor Murphy says the mayor should step aside, according to NJ Globe.

 

In Montclair, a lawsuit alleges school administrators stymied bullying reports, according to NorthJersey.com. The interim township attorney won’t renew, according to Montclair Local.

 

In Newton, fees were adjusted, according to TAPinto.

 

In Paterson, parents are protesting the proposed switch to middle schools, according to Paterson Press.

 

In Phillipsburg, police gained real-time access to housing authority cameras, according to Lehigh Valley Live.

 

In Runnemede, a new plan was approved for a shuttered hotel, according to Burlington County Times.

 

In Sayreville, bamboo planting was banned, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Somerville, a teacher alleged discrimination over breastfeeding,a ccording to MyCentralJersey.

 

In South Plainfield, a lawsuit against the town was dismissed, according to TAPinto.

 

In Trenton, police announced a hiring effort, according to Trenton Journal.

 

In Wayne, a state trooper who was arrested was going through a personal crisis, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In West Orange, residents expressed concern about a health facility, according to TAPinto.

 

AROUND THE WEB:

 

Five things to know about Sen. Cory Booker’s marathon Senate speech

NJ Spotlight News

 

  • Sen. Cory Booker, (D-NJ) has been speaking on the Senate floor for more than 20 hours to disrupt “the business of the United States Senate for as long as I am physically able.” Addressing everything from the Trump administration’s policies to various Garden State musicians, “Filibooker,” as he’s being referred to on YouTube, has already delayed a vote on an ambassadorial nominee that had been scheduled by Senate Republicans.

 

N.J. man seeking citizenship for years went to office for paperwork, gets detained by ICE

Stephanie Loder, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

 

  • Family and friends are rallying for a “well-loved community member” in Hunterdon County after he was detained last month by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Karim Daoud, who is from Egypt, has been detained since March 12 when he went to an appointment to pick up work authorization documents, according to Rachel Mascitelli, a family friend.

 

Fire company president asks state to save volunteer firefighting service

James Armstrong, President of the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company, Egg Harbor Township

 

  • The volunteer fire service is the most unique form of volunteer service in existence. It is a dying breed nationwide and on life support in New Jersey. Seventy-seven percent of New Jersey’s 26,250 firefighters are volunteers. Numerous companies statewide have closed their doors. Many fire companies receive minimal state aid and are not financially supported by residents or businesses within their community. Thanks for your service.

 

N.J. cops start crackdown on texting drivers. See which towns are splitting $1M to add patrols.

Matthew Enuco, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

 

  • A month-long effort funded by over $1 million in public grants will target enforcement of distracted driving laws across New Jersey starting April 1. “Put the Phone Away or Pay” aims to crack down on distracted driving during the entire month of April, the Attorney General’s Office and Division of Highway Traffic Safety announced Monday.

 

County College of Morris contributes $586.1M to local economy

NJ Hills

 

  • County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph generated $586.1 million in added income for Morris County during the 2022-23 fiscal year, according to a new economic impact study. The report by Lightcast, an international provider of economic impact studies and labor market data, found that CCM’s impact supports 5,977 jobs in the region, representing one out of every 75 jobs in Morris County. “At CCM, our mission is to help all members of the community achieve their educational and career aspirations, and in doing so, we fuel economic growth across Morris County and throughout the state,” said Dr. Anthony Iacono, president of CCM.

 

(VIDEO) Perceived lack of transparency looms over Hunterdon Central board

Rikki Massand, NJ Hills

 

  • Public comments about a perceived lack of transparency brought forth explanations from Hunterdon Central Regional High School Board of Education President Lisa Santangelo at the Monday, March 24, meeting.

 

Obtaining Permanent U.S. Residency and Citizenship: a Complicated Journey, Explained

Willemijn Don-Goetz, NJPen

 

  • When I first arrived in the United States as an international student, I passed by a post office every day. “Apply for a passport here!” it said on the banner outside. “Well that’s easy,” I thought, “when I’m ready, and if I want to, I know where to go for a passport.” But, as I discovered, it wasn’t that easy to obtain a U.S. passport.

 

Report: The Green could factor into Morristown’s downtown redevelopment in a big way

Myles Standitch, Morristown Green

 

  • As Morristown officials ramp up efforts to goose redevelopment of long-vacant storefronts on North Park Place — arguably, the choicest address in town–another high-visibility property may be in play.

 

Meet the 2025 NJBIZ ICONs

NJBIZ Staff

 

  • When you think of New Jersey’s trailblazers and innovators, it’s quite possible you’re thinking of the 2025 NJBIZ ICON honorees. These leaders – all age 60 and over – represent industries across New Jersey, from accounting, architecture, real estate, law, government, hospitality and more. The individuals listed below are honored for their work throughout their careers — not just in their respective fields, but in the state’s larger business community as well. These ICONs have not only made a name for themselves over the years, but also served as mentors for the next generation of leaders.

 

Ongoing threats cast shadow over Transgender Day of Visibility

Briana Vannozzi, NJ Spotlight

 

  • Large vessels on the Delaware River have lost power, steering or propulsion an average of at least 13 times a year from January 2013 through January 2024, putting bridges and other vessels in danger of a catastrophe similar to what happened in Baltimore last year, according to U.S. Court Guard data exclusively analyzed by Delaware Currents.

 

Teen attacked outside of Trenton McDonalds deserves better than spectators

LA Parker, The Trentonian

 

  • March 31, International Transgender Day of Visibility, is meant to raise awareness about transgender and nonbinary people, and call attention to their contributions. It also focuses on the high levels of discrimination, poverty and violence the community faces globally.

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