Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “We just listened for about a half-hour of Mr. Platkin basically sending a personal message to George Norcross. Now I’m sending a personal message to Matt Platkin: Buckle up.” – Norcross attorney Michael Critchley
TOP STORY: George Norcross Charged in Racketeering Case
In a year already packed with political bombshells, the AG’s Office unveiled racketeering charges against South Jersey power broker George Norcross III (read in indictment here). At the press conference announcing the indictment, Norcross stared down AG Platkin, blistering him afterwards, according to Politico NJ. Several other high-powered figures are being charged as well, including Norcross’ brother, Philip Norcross, lawyer Bill Tambussi, and former Camden Mayor Dana Redd.
The Rutgers union called on Tambussi from resign from the Board of Governors following the indictment.
Insurance rates could rise as hurricane season ramps up, according to NJ101.5.
Commuters could soon pay $6 to cross the four Delaware River bridges, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Bergen County received $3M to fight opioids, according to the Bergen Record.
The state is planning a women’s prison in Burlington County, according to the Burlington County Times. Burlington County officials requested the Philly mayor crack down on boom car parties.
Senator Booker introduced the ‘NO SHT Act’.
Genova Burns LLC welcomed three summer associates from Rutgers.
ICYMI: Former Essex Freeholder Cavanaugh passed away; Murphy’s approval rating 46%; Gottheimer touted high-speed internet; thousands gathered for Trump rally, Van Drew welcomed Trump, who said ‘we’re going to win’ NJ, will ‘shut down deadly sanctuary cities‘ made endorsement of Serrano Glassner; Fulop celebrates reservoir trail
Media personality and Trump supporter Bill Spadea launched his candidacy in the GOP gubernatorial primary. Touting his conservative credentials, Spadea’s path to the nomination could be made more difficult with the presence of former Senator Ed Durr in the race, while Senator Bramnick and former Assemblyman Ciattarelli occupy the more moderate wings of the primary.
Bergen County voters will find dozens of independents on the ballot, according to the Bergen Record.
Gubernatorial candidate Jersey City Mayor Fulop applauded the Norcross indictment as a ‘good day for the future’ of the state, according to Hudson County View.
In CD7, Sue Altman lauded the indictment of George Norcross as a ‘new day’ for NJ politics.
In CD10, the SEIU endorsed Councilwoman McIver in the special primary.
Wingate defeated Vigilante for Gloucester GOP chair, according to NJ Globe.
ICYMI: Spiller launched his candidacy for guv; Millennials For NJ announced Rebecca Schwartz as chair; Insider NJ’s Who’s Up And Who’s Down; Dems welcome showdown with MAGA; GOP seething at media for blaming Trump; in CD3, Mohan won GOP primary to face off against Conaway; primary featured collisions; Kim emerged victorious; Bashaw won the GOP Senate primary, with national implications; Passaic key test for party organizations, Adamo won; Menendez prevailed; potential Menendez replacement names; Crispi wants Trump GOP loyalty pledge; Bashaw says Kim ‘not a strong candidate‘
On the heels of signing the controversial OPRA bill, Governor Murphy says he doesn’t think about his legacy, as he faces anger from advocates over the weakening of public access.
Senate leadership introduced legislation to further protect reproductive freedom and health equity.
A plan for tax credits for private school tuition was scrapped, according to NJ Spotlight.
As spending grows, budget challenges loom, according to NJ Spotlight.
The transit property pitch kicked off the final weeks of the budget, according to NJ Spotlight.
Business organizations expressed support for advanced recycling technology.
The NJ Institute of Social Justice released the ‘From Shackles To Scholarships’ report.
ICYMI: Murphy announced promotions; Murphy nominated Hoffman for Supreme Court; NJSBA president condemned judge’s remarks; Senate passed OPRA legislation, boos and jeers greeted vote
In Newark, Chigozie Onyema won the chairmanship of the West Ward Democrats.
In Beach Haven, the Holiday Snack Bar dispute was resolved, according to TAPinto.
In Chatham Borough, there’s a five-way race for two council seats, according to TAPinto.
In Eatontown, a lawsuit is taking on a Little League coach and the town over 1989 sex abuse, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Essex Fells, the water rate was increased, according to NJ Hills.
In Flemington, the town received a park grant despite not remembering applying for it, according to TAPinto.
In Hasbrouck Heights, three ordinances were passed, according to TAPinto.
In Jersey City, a McGreevey campaign mailer raised questions, according to NJ.com.
In Lakewood, a state program could help revitalize businesses, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Newark, immigrant advocates are alarmed at the prospect of a new jail, according to NJ Monitor.
In Ocean City, banning boardwalk masks was rejected, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
In Passaic, the city envisions an extensive bike path system, according to NorthJersey.com.
In Peapack-Gladstone, geese returned as activists face a threat, according to NJ Hills.
In Upper Freehold, claims of bias and a danger to birds and history aim to stop two warehouses, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Warren, schools will close for the general election, according to NJ Hills.
In Wildwood, Senior Week is still a money-maker for businesses, whether they like the tradition or not, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. A former mayor was hired as an efficiency expert, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
ICYMI: In Bloomfield, Mundell prevailed; in Perth Amboy, Caba prevailed; in White, warehouse five-year fight over; in Paterson, Mendez declared victory; Velez won; Abdelaziz won; in Montclair, Baskerville won mayoralty; in Orange, Mayor Warren secured re-election; in Irvington, Vauss’ allies swept; guide to municipal elections; in Annandale, ongoing book battle; in New Brunswick, freedom of press case may go to state SC; in Roxbury, BOE decision to rescind transgender protections
AROUND THE WEB:
Op-Ed: NJ farmworkers need protection from heat
Edgar Aquino-Huerta, NJ Spotlight
- I started working on farms at just 13 years old, navigating the backroads of South Jersey to pick crops, to weed and to plant, earning $7.25 an hour. Over the years, as temperatures climbed, we used bandanas to shield ourselves from the sun and protect ourselves so we wouldn’t inhale chemicals that lingered in the air after application to the crops. The heat intensified the chemicals, making them even more potent under our makeshift protective coverings.
Ending the ‘code of silence’ on prison abuse | Editorial
Star-Ledger Editorial Board
- The worst Phil Murphy scandal is his neglect of Edna Mahan, the state’s only prison for women. The feds in 2020 issued a report saying sexual assault by guards and prison staff was “severe and prevalent” throughout the prison, and he did virtually nothing – standing with his prisons chief even as the Senate passed a unanimous, bipartisan resolution demanding that Marcus Hicks resign.
ROI-NJ presents the ROI Influencers: Banking 2024
ROI-NJ Staff
- Capital. Financing. Growth. The top banking leaders in New Jersey. Whether you’re a large corporation planning to expand or a startup seeking initial funding, New Jersey offers a wealth of financial resources.
Questions policymakers must ask (and answer) about ‘Corporate Transit Tax’
Michele Siekerka, NJBIA
- As the budget deadline draws closer, let’s be clear that a vote for a new tax on business is a vote against affordability and competitiveness for New Jersey. The New Jersey Business & Industry Association just released an infographic detailing 40 reasons why the governor’s proposed $1 billion “Corporate Transit Tax” will have impacts not just for New Jersey’s largest job creators, but also for the workers, customers and small businesses that rely on those companies.
This Somerset County hunting preserve hidden gem traces its history back four generations
Jenna Intersimone, MyCentralJersey.com
- You’ve driven down Lamington Road in Bedminster countless times, passing Trump National Golf Club and Clarence Dillon Public Library. You’ve also passed a dirt road brimming with four-generation-old farming and hunting history, starting with Clarence Dillon, the father of former U.S. Treasury Secretary C. Douglas Dillon.
Who is George Norcross? A look at the indicted South Jersey power broker
Thomas Fitzgerald, Philadelphia Inquirer
- South Jersey Democratic boss George E. Norcross III has never been elected to anything, but he’s salted dozens of municipal governments with loyalists of his political organization and amassed influence in the back rooms of Trenton and the marbled halls of Washington. Governors, would-be governors, and U.S. senators have sought his advice and favor. Presidents know him and return his calls.
Feds want a decision in N.J. lawsuit to block $15 congestion pricing fee to enter Lower Manhattan
Larry Higgs, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
- With the June 30 start of New York’s congestion pricing plan on hold, federal officials told a judge that a ruling is still needed in New Jersey’s lawsuit to block the proposal to charge $15 to drive into lower Manhattan.
Great party? Of course. But, beyond festivities was key World Cup networking opportunity
Tom Bergeron, roi-nj.com
- Sure, it was a great party — with great food and drinks, great music and a great atmosphere. Anyone who has been to an event sponsored by the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey or the New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce knows to expect that.
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Insider NJ’s Daily Morning Briefing for June 18, 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the latest news and developments in New Jersey politics and beyond. This daily newsletter is a must-read for anyone looking to stay informed about the latest happenings in the state.
One of the top stories featured in today’s briefing is Governor Murphy’s announcement of a new initiative to expand access to affordable housing in New Jersey. The governor outlined his plans to invest in new affordable housing units and provide assistance to low-income families struggling to find affordable housing. This initiative is part of the governor’s broader efforts to address the state’s housing crisis and ensure that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing.
In addition to the affordable housing initiative, today’s briefing also covers updates on key legislative issues, including the latest on the state budget negotiations and upcoming hearings on important bills. Readers can expect to find detailed analysis and commentary on these issues, as well as insights from political experts and insiders.
The briefing also includes a roundup of the latest news from around the state, including updates on local elections, community events, and other important developments. From breaking news to in-depth analysis, Insider NJ’s Daily Morning Briefing offers a comprehensive look at the latest happenings in New Jersey politics and beyond.
Overall, Insider NJ’s Daily Morning Briefing for June 18, 2024 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in staying informed about the latest news and developments in New Jersey. Whether you’re a seasoned political insider or just someone looking to stay up-to-date on current events, this daily newsletter is a must-read for anyone interested in New Jersey politics.
