Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “I’m not a bureaucrat. I am for better or worse a populist conservative politician. I am. I’m not afraid to say politician. I like people. I like to campaign. I would miss the campaigns. I’d miss going out there.” – Rep. Van Drew on not wanting to serve in the Trump Administration
TOP STORY: New Ballot Design Questions Dog Assembly Committee
Download and read Insider NJ’s 2024 Insider 100: Power publication.
Senator Helmy is stepping down on Sunday to make way for Senator-elect Kim.
The drought has silver linings for the state’s wineries, according to NJ Spotlight.
The Delaware River salt line is 20 miles north of where it should be this time of year, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
The FBI is probing mystery drone and aircraft sightings over the Raritan River, according to MyCentralJersey.
Atlantic County Central Municipal Court members will save 45% in the new year, according to Downbeach.
Monmouth County road deaths are up 45%, according to the Asbury Park Press.
Senator Booker was elevated to the #4 position in Senate Democratic leadership, according to NJ Globe.
Rep. Van Drew is in line for influence in the incoming Trump Administration, according to NJ Spotlight.
Rep. Gottheimer announced a ‘Lower Utility Prices Plan’.
ICYMI: Gas tax increase; Gottheimer launched campaign for Governor; Sherrill launched candidacy for Governor; Democrats lost strength
Questions on new ballot design dogged the Assembly Select Committee on the issue.
With three legislators leaving, the jockeying begins for seats and leadership posts, according to NJ Globe.
Governor Murphy is expected to sign the ‘Freedom To Read Act’ next week, according to Politico NJ.
Senator Steinhardt introduced legislation to strengthen state and federal coordination on immigration.
ICYMI: State preparing to defend against deportation; guv candidates converged at conference; Haytaian passed away; Bramnick bucked party