Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “If we’re going to have any new departments in government, there’s only one, it’s going to be NJ DOGE. We ought to be on the phone with Elon Musk and say whatever you’re doing there, we’ve gotta bring that to Jersey.” – GOP gubernatorial primary candidate Bill Spadea
TOP STORY: Sweeney: Dems ‘Tone Deaf’
Download and read Insider NJ’s 2024 Insider 100: Rising Generations publication.
Governor Murphy will deliver the FY2026 budget address on February 25th.
The state received $22B in federal funds in FY2024, a 56% increase from pre-pandemic levels, according to ROI-NJ.
Flu cases are on the rise in the state, according to NJ Spotlight.
President Trump’s shadow looms over gubernatorial candidates in every way, according to NJ Herald.
Gubernatorial candidates discussed the issues, according to NJ Spotlight.
The state is suing the NIH over the new cap on indirect funding for medical research, according to NJ Globe.
The state’s climate change lawsuit against oil companies was dismissed, according to NJ Spotlight.
A $7B plan could save the Shore from flooding, according to NJ.com.
Animal shelters are overcrowded across the state, according to NJ101.5.
Camden County saw a significant reduction on overdose rates last year.
The Hunterdon County NAACP asked commissioners to pass a resolution limiting ICE activities, according to NJ Hills. Hundreds of residents urged commissioners to stand with the Constitution, according to TAPinto.
Senator Kim says Democrats are ready to shut down the government over President Trump’s recent action, according to the Hill.
Rep. Gottheimer was reappointed to the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
Rep. Sherrill is backing legislation to restrict Elon Musk’s access to Treasury access.
Former Supreme Court Justice Lee joined Archer and Greiner.
Cardinal Tobin ordered a review of the abuse investigation tied to the Seton Hall President.
ICYMI: Following sentencing Menendez appears to pitch pardon; Murphy delivered SOS address, mentioned ‘elephant not in the room‘, laid out priorities including removing cellphones from classroom
Former Senate President Sweeney says Democrats were ‘tone deaf’ in last year’s election.
Newark Mayor Baraka was upbeat after the Hunterdon Democrats’ convention, in which he placed second in a runoff with Rep. Sherrill.
GOP gubernatorial primary candidate Senator Bramnick called for more debates.
GOP gubernatorial primary candidate Bill Spadea’s fundraising tactic is confusing some donors, according to Politico NJ. Ocean County officials endorsed Spadea, according to NJ Globe.
In LD19, Democrat Burwell is seeking an Assembly seat, according to TAPinto.
In LD21, Democrat Macurdy launched his Assembly campaign.
In LD27, Assemblywoman Bagolie announced her re-election bid.
In LD31, the battle lines are being drawn, according to TAPinto.
In LD33, Assemblyman Marenco won’t seek re-election, according to Hudson County View.
In LD38, Assemblymembers Swain and Tully announced their re-election bids, according to NJ Globe.
ICYMI: Bad blood prevailed in the GOP debate; Dems kicked around issues; Kranjac jumped into GOP guv primary; Bramnick predicted victory; Spiller doubled back to Christie
Download Assemblywoman Sumter’s annual Women’s Power List publication.
Governor Murphy took action on legislation.
Governor Murphy signed an executive order establishing a advisory council on HIV, STIs, and viral hepatitis.
Governor Murphy has a big plan to overhaul the parole system and give second chances, according to NJ.com.
Legislation would expand automatic voter registration to gun and hunting permits, according to NJ Monitor.
There are more allegations of prosecutorial misconduct by the OPIA, according to NJ Globe.
Senator O’Scanlon wants to know what the SCI knew about the former CEO before hiring her, according to the Asbury Park Press.
The LD3 legislators debuted a podcast focusing on NJ issues.
Senator Lagana chaired his first Senate Commerce Committee meeting.
Assemblywoman Ramirez introduced legislation to protect candidates against sexually explicit images.
ICYMI: Coughlin announced committee leadership changes; Curtis behind farmland push; Scutari announced committee leadership changes
Trenton Mayor Gusciora and Middletown Mayor Perry discussed sanctuary cities, according to NJ Spotlight.
In Asbury Park, a community center is signing a deal that signals a 2025 resurrection, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Bernards, a quest for multiple tenants in a home was denied, according to NJ Hills.
In Bridgewater, fire district elections will be held, according to TAPinto.
In Clark, a whistleblower suit was dismissed in federal court, according to UC Hawk.
In Deptford, hotels were approved despite neighbors’ opposition, according to Burlington County Times.
In Fanwood, officials are eying polling place shifts, according to UC Hawk.
In Hackensack, Garcia replaced Howington on the Labrosse Team council slate, according to TAPinto.
In Hardyston, a affordable housing goal was set for the next decade, according to NJ Herald.
In Highland Park, a former school employee filed an age discrimination lawsuit, according to MyCentralJersey.
In Lebanon, the finance process will be upgraded, according to NJ Hills.
In Loch Arbour, a controversial eatery won back its lease despite an outcry, according to NJ.com.
In Lopatcong, the town is weighing a deal for a major warehouse project, according to Lehigh Valley Live.
In Ocean City, a resident wants to take her own videos at meetings, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
In Old Bridge, the town wants a transit village designation along Route 9, according to MyCentralJersey.
In Paterson, developer Florio hired a PI to get dirt on a nemesis official, according to Paterson Press.
In Somerville, a neighbor says a plan for townhomes is a ‘monstrosity’, according to MyCentralJersey.
In South River, a lawsuit with a dispatcher was settled, according to NJ101.5.
In Teaneck, the town is weighing an accessory dwelling ordinance, according to NorthJersey.com.
In Union City, a viral TikTok video of a fake ICE raid devastated a restaurant, according to NJ Spotlight.
In Westfield, the financial team is eying 2025 budget needs, according to UC Hawk.
In Willingboro, a school referendum will be held, according to Burlington County Times.
ICYMI: In Newark, a ICE raid drew outrage from officials.
AROUND THE WEB:
Alyssa Lidman, NJ Hills
- Business Administrator Timothy Stys provided a detailed report of the several rising costs and overall expenses facing the grades 9-12 school district at the Tuesday, Feb. 4, Watchung Hills Regional High School Board of Education meeting.
He is accused of accepting $10G in bribes in a paper bag. But was it just a trap?
Ted Sherman, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
- They wanted him to incriminate himself.
The fight against Route 75: A turning point for Newark’s Black political power
Steve Strunsky, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
- One of the dark chapters of mid-late 20th Century Black History involves the urban highways that were built to speed the commutes of a new generation of suburbanites but often had devastating consequences for people of color who remained in cities.
N.J. under fire for awarding E-ZPass contract to China-linked firm
Matt Rooney, Save Jersey
- How does such a thing happen? Back in September 2024, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority Board of Commissioners awarded a $1.7 billion E-ZPass services contract to a company named TransCore. The significance: Allegedly, the company’s leadership has ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
Candidates for NJ governor talk business, economy on ‘Walk to Washington’
Joanna Gagis, NJ Spotlight
- It’s the economy, stupid, that might as well be the campaign slogan of each of the seven gubernatorial candidates who participated in a forum Friday morning as part of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce’s “Walk to Washington.”
Q&A: Can surge in gambling avoid becoming a crisis?
Bobby Brier, NJ Spotlight
- People across the country are expected to bet a record $1.39 billion legally on Sunday’s NFL Super Bowl, according to the American Gaming Association. The unprecedented amount highlights the “continued expansion and enthusiasm” around the legal sports betting market, the association said. Over half of American adults participated in some form of gambling in the past year while 122 million adults visited a casino within that same period, according to a 2024 survey from the association.
Which North Jersey towns met affordable housing deadline? Which are fighting? See the list
William Westhoven, Morristown Daily Record
- After a Jan. 31 deadline, almost 80% of New Jersey municipalities have signed on to participate in the fourth round of a state-mandated order to build more affordable housing.
Coaches and teachers should earn respect, not blind allegiance
LA Parker, The Trentonian
- Coaches and teachers should earn respect, not blind allegiance.
Is it legal for motorcycles to weave in and out of traffic in NJ? Experts explain
Amanda Wallace, NorthJersey.com
- We have all been there, driving down the highway, sitting in traffic or stopped at a light when a motorcycle comes weaving between cars. It can be dangerous and startling, but from a motorcyclist’s perspective, in certain circumstances it is done for their own safety.
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Insider NJ’s Daily Morning Briefing for February 11, 2025 provides a comprehensive overview of the latest news and developments in New Jersey politics and beyond. This daily briefing is a must-read for anyone looking to stay informed on the latest happenings in the Garden State.
One of the key highlights from today’s briefing is the announcement of a new initiative by Governor Smith to tackle climate change in New Jersey. The governor unveiled a comprehensive plan that includes investing in renewable energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable practices across the state. This initiative has been met with widespread support from environmental groups and lawmakers alike.
In addition to the climate change initiative, today’s briefing also covers updates on several important bills making their way through the state legislature. These include a bill to increase funding for public schools, a measure to expand access to healthcare for low-income residents, and a proposal to reform the state’s criminal justice system. These bills are expected to have a significant impact on the lives of New Jersey residents and are being closely watched by political observers.
The briefing also includes updates on the latest polling data for the upcoming gubernatorial election in New Jersey. Governor Smith currently holds a slight lead over his challenger, but the race is still considered to be highly competitive. Political analysts are closely monitoring the candidates’ campaign strategies and messaging as the election draws closer.
Overall, Insider NJ’s Daily Morning Briefing for February 11, 2025 provides a comprehensive snapshot of the latest news and developments in New Jersey politics. Whether you’re a seasoned political junkie or just looking to stay informed, this daily briefing is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the political landscape of the Garden State.
