One former governor and one who would be governor had an exchange this morning during a hearing of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The moment occurred when state Senator Jon Bramnick (R-21) engaged former Governor James McGreevey, present to testify on the implementation of the state’s 2017 criminal justice reform measures.
McGreevey chairs the New Jersey Reentry Corporation.
“Sometimes we have to keep the bad guys off the streets,” said Bramnick, who launched his candidacy for governor in January.
“Is there a camera going?” McGreevey asked the Republican.
“Yeah, but it’s on you, though,” Bramnick shot back.
McGreevey is running to be the next mayor of Jersey City.
The former governor has the backing for that job from state Senator Brian P. Stack, who chairs the Judiciary Committee and welcomed McGreevey to the hearing.
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Insider NJ, a popular news outlet in New Jersey, recently provided extensive coverage of the camera at the Senate Judiciary Committee. The camera, which was installed to livestream the committee’s meetings, has sparked a debate among lawmakers and the public about transparency and accountability in government proceedings.
The Senate Judiciary Committee is responsible for reviewing and approving judicial nominations, as well as overseeing legislation related to the judiciary system. The committee’s meetings are typically open to the public, but not everyone is able to attend in person. The camera was installed to provide greater access to these important discussions and decisions.
Some lawmakers have expressed concerns about the camera’s presence, fearing that it may inhibit open and honest discussions among committee members. They worry that having their every word and action recorded could lead to a more guarded approach to their work.
On the other hand, supporters of the camera argue that transparency is essential in a democratic society. Livestreaming the committee’s meetings allows constituents to see how their elected officials are representing them and holding government officials accountable. It also provides a valuable resource for journalists and researchers who want to understand the inner workings of the judiciary system.
Insider NJ’s coverage of the camera at the Senate Judiciary Committee has shed light on these important issues and sparked a broader conversation about transparency in government. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how lawmakers navigate the balance between openness and privacy in their decision-making processes.