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All – or Almost All – Roads Lead to Parsippany

by BusinessExplore New JerseyNorth JerseyPolitics

PARSIPPANY – As traffic stops involving public officials go, this one seemed benign.

Back in the summer of 2023, Councilman Justin Musella was a passenger in a car that was stopped for speeding in town. His wife was driving.

The approaching police officer saw Musella and obviously recognized him. He addressed him as “Justin.” All this is on a video of the incident.

Musella said they were trying to catch a train. Musella’s wife showed the officer the councilman’s business card, which probably was redundant, because the cop knew who he was. No ticket was written.

We digress.

Many political observers have seen – and read about – politicians getting stopped by police and arrogantly saying something like, “Do you know who I am?”

The best response to that is for a cop to say, “No, but I will in 30 seconds when you show me your license.”

No interplay like that occurred here. Musella and his wife went on their way and the incident was over.

Not really.

Now we are in the spring of 2025 and Musella is challenging Mayor Jamie Barberio in the June Republican primary.

The 2023 traffic stop has become a big issue.

Barbiero

 

So much so that Barberio is backing a council resolution to censure Musella at Tuesday night’s meeting. A “censure” sounds worse than it is. While it is an official reprimand that someone did something naughty, it doesn’t carry a lot of weight.

The censure vote was to occur last week, but the council chamber was so overflowing with residents, the meeting was postponed. This week’s meeting will be at a larger venue – Parsippany Hills High School.

Here is what the mayor says about the incident on social media.

“The (state) statute states that ‘No local government officer or employee shall use or attempt to use his official position to secure unwarranted privileges or advantages for himself or others.’ The reason for the censuring was due to a public video of police body cam footage from a traffic stop on 08/03/2023 where Musella and his wife were pulled over for exceeding the speed limit by 20-24 mph. When the officer on the stop asked them for their credentials, Councilman Musella handed the officer his officially issued business card, and the responding officer immediately let them go.”

The mayor says Musella was again pulled over for speeding a few months later and was also let go. Barberio adds:

“Musella is attempting to evade accountability for his abuse of power. He is seeking to justify his reckless speeding through residential neighborhoods, which puts residents and children at risk. Meanwhile, Justin thinks he is entitled to operate under a distinct set of rules, seemingly above the law that governs others.”

Musella responded:

“Parsippany residents see through Jamie Barberio’s political stunt – a desperate distraction from the real challenges caused by his failed policies. (Last) Tuesday’s strong turnout proves the people won’t tolerate this baseless lawfare. It’s time to end the games and focus on what truly matters.”

Musella said he has no recollection and has seen no evidence of the second traffic stop to which Barberio referred.

It is worth noting that before this race began dissolving into animosity, Morris County Republicans tried to bring Musella into the fold by asking him to run for reelection as a councilman on Barberio’s ticket.

As we can see, that plan failed.

 

 

 

 

The post All – or Almost All – Roads Lead to Parsippany appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Sherrill Hits the Streets

by Explore New JerseyPolitics

BEDMINSTER – The intersection of Route 206 and Lamington Road used to be – just an intersection in a tony town.

Now it’s an epicenter of democracy in New Jersey.

On this Sunday, the MAGA troops got there first. Waving giant Trump flags and some attired in Trump clothing, about 30 or so supporters celebrated the president’s two months in office.

But then, around noon, a somewhat larger group of letter carriers arrived with a huge banner reading, “Fight Like Hell.”

They set up shop about 75 yards away from the MAGA group along 206 South.

They were there to fight possible plans of the Trump Administration to privatize the postal service. They say that would mean service cutbacks, especially in rural areas, and the loss of jobs.

A local police officer stood between the two groups in a demilitarized zone of sorts.

There’s nothing coincidental about the location – Trump’s golf course is a few miles down the road to the west and the president was there earlier this weekend.

Trump supporters, who have been a steady presence at the location going back to Trump’s first term, dismissed the protest as the work of liberal Democrats. And as one person reminded the letter carriers as they walked by, “Trump won.”

A few minutes later, Rep. Mikie Sherrill joined the group in support.

Sherrill, who is running for governor, noted that the postal service is mentioned in the U.S. Constitution.

“I sincerely appreciate all the work you do,” she said.

Sherrill said she has opposed Louis DeJoy, the outgoing Postmaster General, because:

“We can’t have someone in charge of the postal service who hates the postal service.”

She pledged to keep on fighting to support postal service jobs.

One union official told the letter carriers it’s confusing why MAGA folks would oppose their interests.

After all, he said, the post office delivers mail to everybody.

That’s a legitimate point. But today’s polarized political world doesn’t have room for many subtleties.

The Trump crowd was surprised Sherrill showed up and was speaking a short distance away..

One man said Sherrill’s politics are not to his liking, although he favorably acknowledged her military record. She is a Navy veteran.

The post Sherrill Hits the Streets appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Kim Terrified of Trump World

by BusinessExplore New JerseyPoliticsShopping

BRANCHBURG – Andy Kim stood before about 500 people Friday night and talked about his two young children.

“I’m terrified at what kind of country they will grow up in,” the senator said at a town hall at Raritan Valley Community College.

Kim ticked off some of what he considers the most damaging moves of the Trump Administration.

Broadly speaking, they included the power of Elon Musk, cuts to Medicaid, which as of now benefits 2 million New Jersey residents, the on-again, off-again tariffs and a tilt toward Russia in defiance of traditional U.S. support for democracy.

This was a supportive crowd – at least as far as Donald Trump was concerned.

Most of the questions revolved around what average residents can do to fight the Trump Administration.

Kim boiled things down to two areas – fighting Medicaid cuts, which he said will impact nursing homes, and tariffs, which he said can force many small businesses to raise prices.

More than one question, however, was about why Democrats are not fighting harder. Along these lines, when Chuck Schumer’s name popped up, there were boos.

In response. Kim said he was proud of Democratic accomplishments when he was in the House, including action on climate change and reducing drug costs by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices.

But then he acknowledged:

“It isn’t just about passing legislation. We were terrible at messaging.”

Applause from the crowd showed they agreed.

He said that is why he is trying to “step up” and engage residents with town halls.

Kim, actually, is a veteran of such things.

Counting his time in the House, Kim said the Friday gathering was the 85th town hall he has held. On Thursday, he held one in Atlantic County and on Saturday, he had one scheduled for Brick Township.

And here is a key question the senator says he must consider.

“Does the message you are trying to convey get to the people?”

The only time the nearly two hour session briefly went off the rails was when a Palestinian supporter practically gave a speech about unjust Israeli actions.

“This is not the place for that,” one woman yelled. Another spectator did likewise. Order was soon restored.

The location of the event was in CD-7, which is something Kim – and the audience – certainly recognized.

Rep. Thomas H. Kean Jr., the local congressman, has become infamous – at least to some – for not holding in-person town halls and avoiding contact with the press. He does have a telephone town hall set for next week.

With that in mind, one man asked Kim what he thinks people should ask Kean if they get through on the phone.

This event was not necessarily a partisan one, but Kim could not bypass the chance to score some points with the crowd. He said a good query for Kean would be:

“Why are you hiding from your constituents?”

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Sherrill Wins Essex Democratic Convention

by Central JerseyExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessPolitics

The Congresswoman from the 11th District has prevailed at today’s Essex County Democratic Convention.

Mikie Sherrill 438

Ras Baraka 236

Sean Spiller 24

Steve Sweeney 7

In LD28, West Ward Democratic Chairman Chigozie Onyema defeated Garnett Hall for the backing of the Democratic Party.

Onyema will have the party line with incumbent Assemblywoman Cleopatra Tucker.

Chigozie Onyema

 

“I want to thank you for considering my candidacy for the Essex County Democratic Committee’s endorsement for governor. Voting is open until 2 PM today at Caldwell University. I am asking for your support.

“Over the past several weeks, I’ve competed in county conventions across the state. But this one is a little bit different — Essex County is home.

“It has been an honor to represent Essex County, and I’m so thankful to the Essex Dems for your partnership and support over the past several years, as we work to make Essex the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done together: remediating lead pipes in Bloomfield and Belleville, addressing flooding along the Rahway River, delivering mental health services for kids after COVID, helping to secure our open spaces like the future Essex Hudson Greenway, remediating Superfunds in Fairfield, PFAS remediation in Montclair, and more.

“I’m running for governor to continue delivering for Essex County and for New Jersey — to drive down the cost of housing, to invest in cleaner cheaper power, and to make sure that getting sick in this state isn’t a one-way ticket from the middle class to poverty.

“But I’m also running to stand up for our values as Americans and New Jerseyans. My grandfather, a World War II veteran and a UAW member, would be rolling over in his grave to see what’s happening. And as someone who has spent her entire life serving this country, I’m not going to stand for it.

“Together, we are going to lead a reckoning across this state, and across this nation. I know we can do it, because we did it in 2018. And we couldn’t have done it without the Essex Dems.

“So I am once again humbly asking for your support today, as we build a coalition to win big in June and November, create a better future for our children in Essex County and across New Jersey, and stand up for our values as Americans.”

Sincerely,

Mikie Sherrill

Mikie Sherrill Wins Big in Essex County

CALDWELL — Mikie Sherrill released the following statement today after winning the Essex County Democratic Convention, garnering more than 60 percent of the vote with two other candidates competing from Essex:

“We’ve had a lot of great wins so far, and it’s so special to cap it off with a big win in Essex County — this is home and where we’re raising our family. Essex Dems have had my back since 2018, when we flipped a Trump district and got to work delivering for our communities. We have an opportunity to do that again for the entire state this November. To say enough is enough to Trump and Musk, and stop Jack Ciattarelli or Bill Spadea from bringing that chaos to Trenton. As governor, I’ll deliver for Essex residents — from Newark to North Caldwell and everywhere in between. I will bring a different kind of leadership to Trenton — relentlessly focused on lowering costs for working people, and defending New Jersey during this unprecedented attack on our state.”

Sherrill has won convention victories in Hunterdon, Mercer, Monmouth, Sussex, Middlesex, and Morris. She was the top vote-getter in Ocean County, earning twice as many votes as her nearest competitor. Sherrill has also earned endorsements from Passaic, Union, and Hudson Counties.

The post Sherrill Wins Essex Democratic Convention appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Sherrill Calls for Investigations Into Elon Musk’s Vast Conflicts of Interest and Self-Dealing at Federal Agencies

by BusinessExplore New JerseyLaw & OrderPolitics

Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-11) is calling for inspectors general at eight federal agencies to open investigations into Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) conflicts of interest. Inspectors General are independent watchdogs at federal agencies who investigate waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption. This comes as part of Rep. Sherrill’s ongoing efforts to stand up for New Jersey and fight back against Elon Musk and Donald Trump in Washington.

“Elon Musk is not only the world’s richest man but also one of the federal government’s largest contractors — handing the keys of our government over to him reeks of corruption and vast conflicts of interest. He is working to cut Social Security and Medicare, strip funding from our public schools, and fire the government employees who keep our food, roads, and skies safe — all while his own companies get sweetheart deals. I am calling on the independent watchdogs at eight of our federal agencies to investigate Musk and DOGE’s actions to ensure that an unelected billionaire cannot steal New Jersey families’ federal tax dollars to turn an even greater profit. The self-dealing must be put to an end,” said Rep. Sherrill.

Read the full letter here or below:

Mitch Behm                                                                                                          Sandra J. Lewis

Acting Inspector General                                                                              Acting Inspector General

Department of Transportation                                                                  Department of State

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE                                                                              1700 North Moore Street, SA-39

Washington, DC 20590                                                                                 Arlington, VA 22209

 

Roderick Anderson                                                                                          Steven Stebbins

Acting Inspector General                                                                             Acting Inspector General

Department of Commerce                                                                          Department of Defense

1401 Constitution Ave, NW                                                                         4800 Mark Center Drive

Washington, DC 20230                                                                                 Alexandria, VA 22350

 

Robert Steinau                                                                                                    Robert C. Erickson

Office of Inspector General, Senior Official                                      Deputy Inspector General

National Aeronautics and Space Administration                         General Services Administration

300 E Street, SW Suite 8V39                                                                       1800 F Street, NW

Washington, DC 20546                                                                                 Washington, DC 20405

 

Deborah Jeffrey                                                                                                   Ruth Blevins

Inspector General                                                                                             Inspector General

Securities and Exchange Commission                                               National Labor Relations Board

100 F Street, NE                                                                                                 1015 Half Street, SE

Washington, DC 20549                                                                                 Washington, DC 20570

 

Dear Inspectors General:

I write to you today with concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest and use of federal resources to benefit private interests within a number of federal agencies. Specifically, I am concerned that Elon Musk – named as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by President Trump during his Joint Address to Congress on March 4, 2025 – continues to hold financial interests in companies directly affected by recent DOGE and federal agency actions. Managing a governmental body that is directly affecting an individual’s own personal finances is an unacceptable conflict of interest and degradation of the public trust. I ask that you review the actions of DOGE and Mr. Musk in your departments and agencies where there are potential conflicts of interest regarding Mr. Musk’s companies to ensure that improper or illegal behavior to benefit those companies has not taken place.

Mr. Musk currently serves as a Special Government Employee (SGE), allowing him to avoid required divestments of financial interests that may conflict with his federal work in the Trump Administration, unlike other federal civilian employees. As the head of DOGE, Mr. Musk is leading the Trump Administration’s efforts to eliminate entire agencies, cut contracts with the private sector and nonprofits, and fire career civilian employees – many of which have been challenged and halted in court for unconstitutionally circumventing the power granted to Congress. To carry out these actions, Mr. Musk and DOGE have been granted vast authority to implement contract and staffing decisions at a large number of federal agencies with limited oversight.

However, Mr. Musk’s companies continue to receive billions of dollars in federal contracts. A review of federal records conducted by the Washington Post found that Mr. Musk’s companies have received at least $38 billion in federal funds, including $6.3 billion in 2024 alone. The 52 current federal contracts with Mr. Musk’s companies would pay $11.8 billion over the next several years, representing a clear conflict of interest as Mr. Musk leads the effort to cut tens of billions of dollars in federal contracts.

Additionally, Mr. Musk’s companies have been the subject of several recent complaints and investigations by your departments and agencies. Both the National Labor Relations Board and the Securities and Exchange Commission have active, ongoing cases against Mr. Musk’s companies for unlawful firings and securities violations, which could lead to millions of dollars in penalties if successful.  The involvement of DOGE and Mr. Musk at these agencies, when they are investigating his companies and considering layoffs that could greatly impede their ability to win cases, represents a clear conflict of interest that the public deserves to have investigated.

Given the broad authority that Mr. Musk has been granted by President Trump at agencies that manage contracts and regulatory proceedings involving Mr. Musk’s companies, the potential for conflicts of interest and self-dealing is significant. Specifically, Mr. Musk has the following potential conflicts of interest with your departments and agencies:

Department of Transportation

In 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration awarded Verizon a $2.4 billion contract to upgrade its communications infrastructure over 15 years. However, in February 2025, Mr. Musk posted on X that he wanted to pivot the FAA’s communications system to Starlink, a system wholly owned by Musk’s SpaceX, and there are ongoing discussions within the FAA about handing the contract to Mr. Musk’s company. At the same time, he approved a shipment of 4,000 Starlink terminals to the FAA, with one system already installed at an FAA facility in Atlantic City. This abrupt shift in the FAA’s procurement policy, with a separate company already contracted to provide communications equipment, towards a company owned by Mr. Musk presents serious self-dealing questions about Mr. Musk using federal funds to support his own businesses.

 

Department of State

In February 2025, the State Department indicated that it intended to purchase approximately $400 million worth of armored Tesla Cybertrucks to transport State Department personnel overseas. After public reporting of the planned purchase, the State Department said it would not proceed with the contract and claimed that it had been initiated during the Biden Administration. Public reporting, however, showed that in November 2024, the State Department had only approved $483,000 to purchase electric vehicles, less than one eighth the amount ultimately announced in February 2025. This dramatic increase in a proposed contract for Tesla is deeply troubling given Mr. Musk’s influence over federal contracts and spending.

 

Department of Commerce

In March 2025, the Department of Commerce announced that it would be changing requirements for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program – designed to extend broadband coverage to remote parts of the country – that will expand access to the program for Mr. Musk’s Starlink service and open the door to millions of dollars in federal contracts for Mr. Musk’s business. The program rules were created to favor fiber-optic cable lines attached to homes, until abruptly being changed by the Administration last month. Evan Feinman, the director of the BEAD Program, wrote to staff in a departing email that Starlink would offer slower speeds at higher costs to households than fiber-optic cables.

 

Department of Defense

SpaceX is one of the Department of Defense’s primary contractors for space launch services, with DoD providing at least $7.6 billion in funding for SpaceX since 2003. This includes contracts of $733 million for the National Security Space Launch program awarded in 2024 and $23 million to provide SpaceX’s Starlink internet service to Ukraine. Additionally, public reporting has indicated that SpaceX has also been awarded nearly $2 billion worth of classified contracts by DoD. As DoD has prioritized space systems development and operations in recent years, it has increasingly come to rely on SpaceX’s launch capabilities. Public reporting indicates that DOGE is currently reviewing DoD contracts and budgets, providing the staff the opportunity to potentially improperly funnel additional funding to SpaceX contracts.

 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Like the Department of Defense, NASA maintains extensive contracts with SpaceX for space launch services and other products. On February 1, 2025, after Mr. Musk began his work at DOGE, NASA announced it had selected SpaceX for an approximately $100 million contract to provide launch services for the Near-Earth Object Surveyor mission, which will monitor objects that could potentially impact Earth. Mr. Musk has also advocated for the early dismantling of the International Space Station in the next two years, which SpaceX is currently contracted to deorbit in early 2031. In total, SpaceX CEO Gwynne Shotwell has said the company has approximately $15 billion in NASA contracts. This number is likely to increase as NASA continues to rely heavily on SpaceX for key components of its Artemis Moon exploration program. Public reporting indicates that DOGE staff are currently embedded in NASA developing budget and personnel cuts, giving them the opportunity to potentially impact future SpaceX contracts.

 

General Services Administration

In February 2025, the General Services Administration installed a Starlink terminal at the agency’s Washington headquarters at the request of DOGE staffers and for their use. The installation happened within days of the request, compared to the typical weeks- or months-long process needed for security and procurement review. DOGE and GSA have not provided any explanation for why GSA’s existing internet would be insufficient to support the handful of DOGE staffers working in the GSA headquarters. In addition, Starlink terminals have now been installed across the White House complex. Specific requests by DOGE staff and Mr. Musk to use federal funds for the purchase of equipment manufactured by Mr. Musk’s companies, or to expand the visibility of this equipment by high-profile usage at government facilities, raise significant conflict of interest questions.

 

Securities and Exchange Commission

In January 2025, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed a lawsuit against Mr. Musk alleging that he misled investors about his purchase of Twitter in 2022. The SEC previously won a securities fraud settlement against Mr. Musk requiring him and Tesla to each pay $20 million in penalties. SEC employees were among the federal employees offered $50,000 “buyouts” to voluntarily resign, which could impact the ability of the agency to bring and win enforcement actions like those filed against Musk. DOGE is currently active at the SEC and is reportedly working to cut additional SEC staff in the coming months.

 

National Labor Relations Board

The National Labor Relations Board is currently considering a case against SpaceX brought by eight employees who allege they were illegally fired for criticizing Mr. Musk. In response, SpaceX filed a suit challenging the constitutionality of the NLRB entirely in 2024. The NLRB has also filed complaints against Tesla accusing the automaker of illegally discouraging workers from forming a union, including tweets by Mr. Musk himself threatening the compensation of employees who unionized. In February 2025, the General Services Administration – acting on behalf of DOGE – attempted to unilaterally cancel the lease for the NLRB’s Buffalo office, which would greatly impede their ability to proceed with labor protection cases. President Trump also illegally fired an NLRB board member – before she was reinstated by a federal judge in March – which would have paralyzed the agency’s ability to hear cases like the ones pending against SpaceX and Tesla.

 

Across a large number of agencies and regulatory bodies, the Trump Administration and DOGE have abruptly shifted federal policy to favor companies owned by Mr. Musk and limit the effectiveness of bodies actively investigating Mr. Musk. Given the lack of financial divestment by Mr. Musk or recusal from DOGE activities on the basis of conflicts of interest, these actions paint a disturbing picture whereby Mr. Musk is actively profiting from his role within the federal government. It is essential that our constituents know that federal officials are acting in the best interests of the American people, not their own financial interests.

 

As a result, I ask that you investigate the policy and procurement decisions made by Mr. Musk, DOGE, and the Trump Administration within your agencies to determine whether any have been made to directly benefit Mr. Musk’s companies, and to determine whether any of Mr. Musk’s financial conflicts of interest have impacted his decision-making as the head of DOGE. I look forward to staying in touch as you conduct these reviews and ensure that the federal government is not used to benefit the financial interests of officials within the Trump Administration.

The post Sherrill Calls for Investigations Into Elon Musk’s Vast Conflicts of Interest and Self-Dealing at Federal Agencies appeared first on Insider NJ.

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McIver Fights Back Against Trump Cuts

by BusinessExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessPolitics

Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-10) hosted a town hall tonight to discuss Republican attacks on Medicaid and take questions on the impact these cuts will have on New Jersey. McIver was joined by a panel of local health experts and advocates from across the district. This was McIver’s first in-person town hall—and third town hall overall—since taking office. More than 200 constituents attended.

“Republicans voted to make cuts to Medicaid, but we will keep mobilizing and showing them New Jersey does not want cuts to critical services,” said McIver. “We still hold the power—our voices are still the power and we are powerful when we apply pressure. Here in New Jersey alone, we have three Republicans who aren’t standing up against these attacks on Medicaid. Call them and apply pressure, because they still have to come home to New Jersey and face the people whose care they’ve cut.”

McIver was joined by Cathy Chin, executive director of the Alliance for the Betterment of Citizens with Disabilities, Dr. Jason Elliston, provider with Metropolitan Federal Health Network Jersey City, and Cathy Tamburello, Medicaid advocate and caregiver.

Republicans in Congress voted to pass a budget earlier this month that sets the stage for $880 billion in cuts to Medicaid. McIver voted against the House Republican budget resolution. In NJ-10 alone, these cuts would threaten Medicaid coverage for over 200,000 of NJ-10 residents.

McIver represents New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District. She is the first Black woman to represent NJ-10 and the youngest ever to be elected to the United States House of Representatives from New Jersey. She is a member of the House Small Business and Homeland Security Committees.

The post McIver Fights Back Against Trump Cuts appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 3/21/2025

by BusinessCentral JerseyCutting EdgeDinersExplore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & WellnessJersey ShoreLaw & OrderNorth JerseyPizzaPoliticsSports

Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

 

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “With Democrat disarray in Washington and Trenton, voter registration efforts cutting Democrats’ advantage every month, and a strong leader back in the White House, the state GOP is ready to flip New Jersey red.” – NJGOP Chair Hugin

 

TOP STORY: In Westwood, Dugan Zings Juliano, Fulop Takes on Party Establishment and McKeon Makes His Case for Sherrill

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

NJ political parties are raising millions from contractors that do business with the government, according to NJ.com.

 

The Gateway rail tunnel project is already providing an economic boost, according to NJ Herald.

 

NJGOP Chairman Hugin is delighting in President Trump’s early moves, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Seton Hall was ordered to hand over a report on sexual abuse allegations, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Rep. Pallone and NJ House members are pushing Amtrak for answers on infrastructure upgrades, according to NJ Globe.

 

Rep. Gottheimer laid out his battle plan against congestion pricing, according to NJ Globe.

 

ICYMI: Murphy signed legislation extending primary early voting; judge dismissed Norcross case; Murphy presented record $58.1B budget

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

A bomb scare cleared the Westwood Community Center after a Democratic gubernatorial forum, according to NorthJersey.com. At the forum, the only candidate who attended was Mayor Fulop, took on the party establishment; Rep. Sherrill was represented by Senator McKeon.

 

The NJGOP is hosting their leadership summit this weekend. Former Democrat Assemblyman Holley is a speaker, according to NJ Globe.

 

Jack Ciattarelli campaigned in Woodbridge.

 

A non-profit affiliate of a pro-Sherrill Super PAC returned a $25,000 contribution after labor leaders objected, according to NJ Globe.

 

Constituents heaped scorn on Rep. Kean and federal cutbacks.

 

In LD11, Assemblywomen Donlon and Peterpaul filed petitions for re-election, according to TAPinto.

 

In LD28, Working Families NJ endorsed Onyema for Assembly.

 

Somerset County Democrats endorsed county candidates and awarded their slogan to five gubernatorial candidates, according to NJ Globe.

 

ICYMI: Monmouth GOP primary challenge; Sherrill scored her fifth convention win; Fulop faced w/ question about Dems losing ground; Bhalla, Brennan joined forces in LD32; Gottheimer honing economic message; Sherrill Ocean high vote-getter; Spadea vows aggressive leadership; Ciattarelli has healthy lead on favorability; Baraka leading on favorability

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

The state’s budget season is beginning with familiar faces and testimony, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

NJ nursing homes and officials are disputing budget funding, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

LD34 legislators and local officials formed a flood mitigation advisory committee, according to ROI-NJ.

 

The NJBIA raised concerns over energy storage legislation.

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In Atlantic City, the Anti-Violence Division held a job fair, according to Atlantic City Focus. The CRDA is giving police an extra $3M to patrol the Tourism Division, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Clifton, a third middle school will open, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Denville, residents packed a meeting about a digital billboard, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Hoboken, the council voted in favor of the Garage B plan, according to Hudson County View.

 

In Longport, the town honored officers who worked during the inauguration, according to Downbeach.

 

In Margate, the town is continuing to investigate summertime public transit services, according to Downbeach.

 

In Montclair, the BOE heard updates on referendum projects, according to Montclair Local.

 

In Ocean City, the zoning board rejected a dog daycare, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Parsippany, the council will vote on a redevelopment plan, according to Parsippany Focus.

 

In Paterson, a new labor agreement was reached with library workers, according to TAPinto.

 

In Pemberton, a lawsuit was filed against an undercover cop, according to Burlington County Times.

 

In Phillipsburg, the town plans a 1.9% tax hike, according to TAPinto.

 

In Tinton Falls, Clay was selected to serve as mayor, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

In Washington, the schools superintendent was suspended, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

 

In Westfield, Mayor Brindle and Democrats won’t seek re-election, according to UC Hawk.

 

AROUND THE WEB:

 

Mass resignations in Englishtown, NJ spurred by ‘fear’ of mayor

Rick Rickman, NJ1015

 

  • More than half of Englishtown’s elected officials have resigned in protest of a mayor they say is consolidating power and demanding only “yes men” — and who appointed a convicted killer and mob rat to the governing body. Only one elected councilman remains after an uncharacteristically dramatic time for the small town in Monmouth County.

 

How did we get here? A timeline of sinkhole problems on Route 80 in Morris County

Kyle Morel, NorthJersey.com

 

  • Contrary to what it may feel like to North Jersey commuters, the most recent sinkhole issues impacting a stretch of Route 80 in Morris County has only been going on for just over a month.

 

Effort to rescind transgender student policy in Bridgewater-Raritan fails to gain traction

Cheryl Makin, MyCentralJersey.com

 

  • The Bridgewater-Raritan Board of Education has refused to abolish a policy to protect transgender students. School board member Jeremy Li’s motion to repeal the state-recommended transgender student policy failed to reach a vote when none of his Board colleagues seconded his measure.

 

Rowan College of Burlington County is back with an ex-firm. A top admin says it’s illegal.

Nick Butler, Cherry Hill Courier-Post

 

  • An agenda item seemed clear-cut at a recent meeting of trustees for Rowan College of Burlington County, aka RCBC. The board was expected to vote on a contract, worth up to $200,000, to have a Marlton law firm serve as its new solicitor.

 

Medicaid crucial to New Jerseyans like me, autism advocate tells lawmakers

Trenton Journal

 

  • For 28-year-old William Aronow, federal Medicaid cuts proposed by Republicans in Congress are more than a budget concern. Any reduction, he told New Jersey lawmakers, threatens his ability to advocate for himself and others with autism.

 

If Trump weakens federal worker protections, can NJ fill in the gap?

Daniel Munoz, NorthJersey.com

 

  • Labor advocates are wondering how effectively New Jersey could step up to protect workplace safety and worker rights, if the Trump administration tries to defang the federal agencies that have traditionally handled that role.

 

Trenton has been home to many a great pizza and tomato pie

LA Parker, The Trentonian

 

  • In November 2016 following a Donald Trump presidential victory over Hillary Clinton, Rick DeLorenzo, Jr., the second-generation owner of DeLorenzo’s Pizza on Sloan Ave., made an interesting business decision. DeLorenzo offered customers a “Trumped Discount” as customers received 50-percent off any menu item for one day. The pizza kingpin expressed glee about the Trump victory and wanted to share his magical moment with other likeminded MAGA maniacs.

 

Does the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission have the capacity to handle Real ID demand?

Katie Sobko, NorthJersey.com

 

  • With the federal Real ID program launching in less than two months, New Jersey residents looking to upgrade their licenses may be running into some problems. Despite launching a “Real ID Thursday” initiative to make more appointments available, the state’s Motor Vehicle Commission currently has no appointments available for residents in any county north of Monmouth County before Real ID takes effect on May 7.

 

NJ legal weed joints found with more bacteria, less potency than advertised, study says

Mike Davis, Asbury Park Press

 

  • New Jersey legal weed products contained exponentially higher levels of yeast, mold and bacteria and were often far less potent than advertised, a team of secret shoppers discovered after submitting pre-rolled joints for testing.

 

NJBPU accepts proposed ‘equity’ report for energy rates

Michelle Brunetti Post, Press of Atlantic City

 

  • The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities canceled a press briefing Wednesday on a consultant’s report recommending policies to provide “equity” in energy rates and said it would not be rescheduled.

 

Got $1M? You could buy a beach in Cape May

Bill Barlow, Press of Atlantic City

 

  • A stretch of beach is up for sale with a $1 million price tag and questions about what a buyer could do with it. The 8.17 acres at 610 Beach Ave. does not have a building, and in the past, the state has adamantly opposed any efforts to build on the ocean side of a bulkhead.

 

Here’s how much Jersey Shore beach tags will cost this year in your favorite spot

Sam Ruland, The Philadelphia Inquirer

 

  • It’s almost that time of year again — Jersey Shore summer. Whether you’re a dedicated beach bum, a weekend warrior or someone who just wants to dip their toes in the water for a day, there’s one thing you’ll need to factor into your budget: beach tags.

The post Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 3/21/2025 appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Ciattarelli on the Move

by DinersExplore New JerseyPolitics

WOODBRIDGE – Jack Ciattarelli is talking Thursday evening to about 50 local Republicans in the open air – the side yard of a beauty salon on Amboy Avenue.

It’s an odd setting, but Ciattarelli is predictably upbeat.

“Woodbridge is ground zero, we can win here,” he says

Not only that, Ciattarelli is already talking about “coattails.” His. He hopes Republicans can win enough seats this fall to take control of the Assembly.

They need to flip 13 seats to do that. Talk about a tall order.

He said he thinks shooting for the stars is possible because the differences between New Jersey Democrats and Republicans have never been this “stark.”

While Dems talk about “pronouns” and social engineering, Ciattarelli said Republicans talk about stopping over-development and basic education.

As for Phil Murphy, he condemned the governor for one of his more recent proposals – lowering the voting age to 16 for school board elections. He called it wrong and dangerous.

Six Democrats are seeking the party’s nomination, but Ciattarelli doesn’t care who emerges. As he puts it, they are all “complicit” in Murphy’s agenda.

Could be, but Ciattarelli kind of ignored the fact he is not yet the GOP standard-bearer.

There is a primary with four other credible candidates.

Asked about that, Ciattarelli said he’s “taking nothing for granted.” (One wonders which candidate in history was the first to say that).

As he did when he ran four years ago, Ciattarelli likes to talk about traveling up and down the state. He began the day at a diner and after the Woodbridge gathering, he was off to a “meet and greet” in Hazlet.

Answering a question, he said he plans to campaign in Democratic araes, and, in fact, has done so already.

He said he spent a recent Saturday visiting five barber shops in Newark to talk to patrons. Ciattarelli said he thinks blacks and Hispanics are realizing that Democrats have taken their support for granted.

One man asked about Donald Trump.

Ciattarelli said he is leading in the polls and in fundraising, which bodes well for a Trump endorsement.

That can be a mixed blessing – at least in the general.

Much can happen between now and November, but the president’s approval ratings have dipped below 50 percent. And the stock market has reacted negatively to the off-again, on-again tariffs.

Brushing that aside, Ciattarelli said:

“Based on the president’s performance in the last election, his endorsement will be well received by the people of New Jersey.”
 

 

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 3/20/2025

by BusinessCentral JerseyCutting EdgeDinersExplore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & WellnessJersey ShoreLaw & OrderNorth JerseyPizzaPoliticsSouth JerseySportsTechnology & Tech

Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

 

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “The way I look at it is, when you’re someone like President Trump that’s a negotiator, a deal doer, I don’t worry about the process, whether it’s legislation or trade negotiations. It’s not a pretty process. It’s the results that matter.” – NJGOP Chair Hugin on President Trump’s early moves

 

TOP STORY: Hitting the Streets: NJ Protesters Call on Consumers to Boycott Tesla

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

The Mahmoud Khalil case was transferred to New Jersey, according to Politico NJ.

 

The NJEDA approved programs to boost AI leadership in schools, according to ROI-NJ.

 

Beach replenishment projects at various Shore communities are expected to last into the summer, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

There’s good news and bad news for Jersey Shore summer rentals, according to the Asbury Park Press. Jersey Shore towns are fighting over sand, and its getting uglier, according to NJ.com.

 

Seton Hall may be forced to stop hiding what it knows about sex abuse claims, according to NJ Monitor.

 

Air Force members asked a Camden judge to block the transgender ban, according to Burlington County Times.

 

DEI policies remain at Subaru and Campbell’s in South Jersey, according to Burlington County Times.

 

Atlantic County is giving centralized police dispatch a second look, according to Dowbeach.

 

Middlesex County affordable housing applications are open, according to MyCentralJersey. The county’s most dangerous roads are under the microscope, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

Ocean County proposed a $609M budget, according to the Asbury Park Press. Commissioners predicted the county population will reach 1M, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

Senator Kim will hold town halls in NJ’s GOP-held districts, according to NJ Globe.

 

Rep. Kean scheduled a tele-town hall, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

Protesters demanded Rep. Smith protect Medicare, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

ICYMI: Murphy signed legislation extending primary early voting; judge dismissed Norcross case; Murphy presented record $58.1B budget

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Rep. Gottheimer discusses his gubernatorial campaign with Steve Adubato (video).

 

Gloucester County Republicans endorsed Jack Ciattarelli for Governor, according to NJ Globe. Ciattarelli released his first TV ad, according to SaveJersey.

 

A new Super PAC ad features praise for Bill Spadea from President Trump, according to NJ Globe.

 

In LD28, Onyema defeated Tucker to win the Union Democrats’ endorsement, according to NJ Globe.

 

In CD9, former and future GOP candidate Billy Prempeh was interviewed on Fox and Friends, according to SaveJersey.

 

Hudson County Sheriff Schillari slammed primary challenger Mayor Davis as unfit to serve over his ‘mistreatment of women’, according to Hudson County View.

 

ICYMI: Monmouth GOP primary challenge; Sherrill scored her fifth convention win; Fulop faced w/ question about Dems losing ground; Bhalla, Brennan joined forces in LD32; Gottheimer honing economic message; Sherrill Ocean high vote-getter; Spadea vows aggressive leadership; Ciattarelli has healthy lead on favorability; Baraka leading on favorability

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Here’s the updated legislative calendar (Assembly committees will meet on Thursday) and here’s what happened in Trenton on Monday (March 18th).

 

The public panned tax hikes and spending cuts in the budget proposal, according to NJ Monitor.

 

Governor Murphy rejected a plan to make it harder to see people’s criminal records, according to NJ.com.

 

Former Assemblyman John Rooney passed away, according to NJ Globe.

 

A plan to criminalize deepfakes was sent back to the drawing board, according to NJ.com.

 

After a trio of tragedies, school bus reform legislation advanced, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

The state may tweak pension rules for state police and teachers, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Some advocates are pushing for the expansion of the state’s school choice program, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Activists urged lawmakers to help reduce anti-Muslim bias, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

The NJBIA urged the Legislature to reject Governor Murphy’s new tax proposals.

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In Barnegat, school aid for schools is dropping, according to the Sandpaper.

 

In Barnegat Light, the town is considering upping the base flood elevation, according to the Sandpaper.

 

In Bedminster, emergency service items were discussed, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Bordentown, Commissioner Cheesman resigned, according to TAPinto.

 

In Brigantine, offshore wind opponents say its too soon to cheer the industry’s demise, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Clifton, the former rec director passed away, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Deptford, a lawsuit blames the mayor and town policies for the death of an officer’s sister, according to Burlington County Times.

 

In Englishtown, mass resignations by officials are spurred by ‘fear’ of the mayor, according to NJ101.5.

 

In Flemington, the tax rate could potentially be lowered, according to TAPinto.

 

In Florence, the Turnpike Authority will host a meeting on bridge work, according to Burlington County Times.

 

In Haddon Township, schools are facing a $4M deficit, according to NJ Pen.

 

In Hoboken, Councilman Ramos will vote for the Garage B plan, according to Hudson County View. The city maintained a AA+ rating on long-term debt, according to Hudson County View.

 

In Long Hill, the committee rejected a appropriate authority police ordinance, according to NJ Hills. D’Jamoos will fill an empty BOE seat, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Middletown, angry parents crowded a BOE meeting over potential school closures, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

In Morristown, a hospital expansion plan got a trim, according to Morristown Green. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade had fewer arrests and more families, according to NJ Herald.

 

In Mount Olive, short-term rentals were regulated, according to NJ Hills.

 

In New Brunswick, the state Supreme Court will decide on the Kratovil case.

 

In Newark, Governor Murphy and LG Way joined a non-partisan voter registration drive for 16 and 17 year olds.

 

In North Wildwood, the town is going to court to keep Wildwood Crest in a beach project, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Paramus, protesters called for a Tesla boycott.

 

In Parsippany, a heated council meeting was shut down, according to Parsippany Focus.

 

In Paterson, Casey Melvin announced his council candidacy, according to TAPinto.

 

In Phillipsburg, the affordable housing lottery is closing soon, according to Lehigh Valley Live.

 

In Plainfield, Mayor Mapp endorsed Mayor Baraka for Governor, according to NJ Globe.

 

In Riverdale, a quarry is finally quiet, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Sayreville, the GOP announced council candidates, according to TAPinto.

 

In Scotch Plains, taxes will likely increase, according to TAPinto.

 

In Somerville, PILOT payments are keeping taxes from skyrocketing, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Teaneck, a planning board member was replaced for voting against redevelopments, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Toms River, a ex-special officer alleges the mayor cut him over anti-speeding signs, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

In Trenton, Walnut Ave homes are falling into further disrepair, according to the Trentonian.

 

In Ventnor, a B&B is suing the city over excessive sewer and water fees, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Verona, a event venue was closed after a weekend shooting, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Wayne, an attorney is reviewing civil claims over the police after a shooting, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Wharton, I-80 repairs are slowing traffic and reducing business, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

AROUND THE WEB:

 

 

After Najee Seabrooks’ death, how much have NJ police tactics changed?

Joe Malinconico, Paterson Press

 

  • Revised use-of-force guidelines for New Jersey police officers, $12 million in funding for community groups to help people in mental health crisis, and the state’s takeover of the Paterson Police Department.

 

Need affordable housing? Here’s how the laws work in New Jersey

William Westhoven, Morristown Daily Record

 

  • After decades of slow progress in building up New Jersey’s inventory of affordable housing following the landmark 1975 Mount Laurel decision, a year-old law designed to speed the process along is leading to lawsuits from both towns and builders.

 

Fifty years of affordable housing in New Jersey. See where it started and where it stands

Marsha A. Stoltz, NorthJersey.com

 

  • Fifty years after the Supreme Court of New Jersey ruled in the Mount Laurel I decision that municipalities must change their zoning laws to allow for construction of their “fair share” of affordable housing, the law remains something of a mystery to many state residents.

 

New Jersey’s economic prosperity depends on affordable housing | Opinion

Liz DeCoursey, Special to the USA TODAY Network

 

  • As the U.S. faces an unprecedented housing affordability crisis, many New Jersey residents who want to contribute to their communities — seniors, working families and young professionals — are being priced out. Many families are paying so much for their rent or mortgage that they’re sacrificing basic needs like food and medicine simply to keep a roof over their heads.

 

The Watcher: GOP Sugar Daddy is on his way out

David Wildstein, NJ Globe

 

  • Jon Corzine spent over $130 million of his own money on his three statewide campaigns. Bob Hugin spent $36 million and lost one. And Phil Murphy – maybe the better businessman – spent less than $16.4 million to serve as governor for eight years. The tenure of Bob Hugin as the Republican State Chairman will come to an end this summer.

 

Legislative District 11: 4 Primary Candidates Declared, 2 Petitions Submitted

TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City Staff

 

  • Assemblywoman Margie Donlon, M.D., (D-Ocean Twp) and Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul, Esq., (D-Long Branch) have officially filed for the June 10th Primary Election.

 

Electricity Demand Sparks Nuclear Energy Debate

Gina G. Scala, The Sand Paper

 

  • A New Jersey congressman with the largest district in the state said nuclear energy should be part of a multi-faceted response to the nation’s energy crisis as questions about offshore development continue and double-digit electricity rate hikes loom for nearly half of the state’s ratepayers this summer.

 

Tyrone Laws shines spotlight on the Shore’s Black pioneering scientists

Tanya Breen, Asbury Park Press

 

  • Tyrone Laws, 69, of Lake Como, is working to make sure the contributions of Black scientists at Fort Monmouth and Camp Evans aren’t forgotten.

 

Mold, pathogens, mislabeling: NJ cannabis products fail safety tests

Kimberly Redmond, NJBIZ

 

  • More than two dozen regulated cannabis products for sale in New Jersey recently failed independent safety tests for molds and pathogens, according to a new consumer advocacy organization. After purchasing 25 pre-rolls from 17 dispensaries, the Safe Leaf Society said “rigorous testing” by certified, independent labs determined 28% of the products exceeded microbial limits set by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission. Five separate cultivation license holders accounted for the failures, Safe Leaf said.

 

Jersey City Medical Center unveils Joseph Anton as new chief operating officer

John Heinis, Hudson County View

 

  • The Jersey City Medical Center has unveiled Joseph P. Anton as their new chief operating officer, set to oversee the day-to-day operations of the hospital.

 

Democrats protest Trump’s cuts but are they losing support?

Joanna Gagis, NJ Spotlight

 

  • U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-10th) and Rep. Rob Menendez (D-8th) joined several housing and labor groups Tuesday in Newark to protest the latest round of federal cuts announced by the Trump administration – this time to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

 

When will Route 70 construction be over? | Inquirer Cherry Hill

Felicia Gans Sobey, Philadelphia Inquirer

 

  • Hello, Cherry Hill! This week, we look at the impact that Route 70 construction has had on local businesses, hear from Jersey Kebab owner Emine Emanet after she was released from ICE custody, and share details about a proposal that could reconfigure Cherry Hill middle schools and raise property taxes.

 

Feds to Consider $35.5 M in Additional LBI Beachfill Funding

Gina G. Scala, The Sand Paper

 

  • Congressman Jeff Van Drew is asking the appropriate federal authority to prioritize an additional $35.5 million to fund beach replenishment on Long Beach Island. A resolution from Surf City officials requesting their congressional leaders “exercise all means at their disposal” to ensure adequate funding for the work prompted Van Drew’s action.

 

Democrats Gather to Protest Congressman Van Drew

Eric Englund, The Sand Paper

 

  • Various Democratic Party organizations in South Jersey converged on Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew’s Atlantic County office on March 13, demanding he fight back against what they called “the indiscriminate, capricious, and frankly dangerous cuts to our government services carried out by Elon Musk and his DOGE team.”

 

Attorney for Atlantic City principal appeals after judge denies motion to suppress evidence

John O’Connor, Press of Atlantic City

 

  • The attorney representing the suspended Atlantic City High School principal accused of failing to report the alleged abuse of the mayor and superintendent’s daughter has filed an appeal after a judge rejected a motion to suppress evidence found on three of her electronic devices.

 

PATCO will stop running overnight trains to clean its stations

Thomas Fitzgerald, Philadelphia Inquirer

 

  • PATCO plans to stop running overnight trains on weekdays this spring for six months to allow deep cleaning and maintenance on its 13 stations in South Jersey and Philadelphia, officials said Wednesday. The move comes amid persistent customer concerns about safety, the people who take shelter in some stations, and accumulated dirt and grime.

The post Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 3/20/2025 appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Hitting the Streets: NJ Protesters Call on Consumers to Boycott Tesla

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessPolitics

PARAMUS – There is only a small strip of grassy land between the highway and the parking lot of a Tesla dealer on Route 17.

It’s a pretty dangerous place to stand. But not to Pamela Hudson.

“We don’t care about that,” she said.  “You know what’s dangerous? The government.”

She meant the current government of Donald Trump and Elon Musk, which explained the protest Wednesday afternoon outside the dealership.

About 100 people jammed together on this tiny bit of territory waving signs, chanting and saluting drivers who beeped their horns in apparent support.

One sign featured Musk’s photo with the caption: “Not a genius. Just an unelected slob.”

Other signs proclaimed:

“Free Speech, Use it”

“Boycott Tesla”

“This Immigrant Took Your Job.” Musk’s photo was on that one too.

One woman was a bit creative. She held a sign to motorists that read:
“Flip me off if you’re a fascist.”

Some protesters said they felt they had to do “something” to protest the Trump Administration.

Democrats have been criticized in some quarters for not doing enough to combat Musk. But, in truth, there is so much for Dems to protest, focusing on one thing isn’t easy.

Chris McGowan tried.

“A lot of people voted for Trump because they thought he was going to do something for working people,” said McGowan, who journeyed south from New York state for the demonstration.

But now, the stock market has dipped and all consumers face the prospect of tariff-driven higher prices.

Back up the line, Hudson said she has worked in western Kenya on such humanitarian efforts as a medical clinic and a home for orphans. She says federal cuts have ended funding for vaccines for tuberculosis and other diseases, literally putting lives in that country at risk.

“This is personal for me,” she said.

The demonstration, which ensued during rush hour, made traffic slower than usual.  Nonetheless, there was considerable support for the anti-Musk demonstrators.

But, naturally, it was not unanimous.

One heard dialogue common among political adversaries these days.

“F… You,” one woman yelled as she drove by the group of protesters.

“Stupid bitch,” someone yelled back.

Political debate these days ain’t Lincoln-Douglas.

 

 

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