Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “If Donald Trump wins New Jersey, I will then withdraw as a candidate for governor — that’s a promise. If Donald Trump wins New Jersey, I will absolutely withdraw. Because if that’s what New Jersey wants, I ain’t your guy.” – Senator Bramnick
TOP STORY: Bossism Versus Extremism
Embattled Senator Menendez says he won’t run in the Democratic primary, but remains hopeful that he will be exonerated and can pursue re-election as an independent.
The NJ COVID-19 Call Center will cease operations.
New Jersey ranks #1 for coastal flooding threats, according to NJ101.5.
The Port Authority approved a new Newark transit hub, according to NJ Spotlight.
Bergen County introduced the budget, according to the Bergen Record.
The comptroller says Hudson County broke the law when seeking prison health services contracts, according to NJ Monitor.
Senator Booker introduced the ‘Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act’.
Rep. Van Drew expressed opposition to any cuts to Social Security.
Public Media NJ Inc. announced Elizabeth Mazzeo and Chris Paladino as their newest board members.
ICYMI: Insiders assess line implications, insiders scramble to assess potential line ruling, as behind-the-scenes questions abound, legislative leaders pledged to begin a ‘public process on ballot design’; establishment chokes down potential ‘line’ ruling; Fontoura won’t seek re-election; Menendez considering independent Senate run; Murphy’s approval 50%
In CD5, Rep. Gottheimer wasted no time in attacking GOP candidate Mary Guinchard.
Passaic County Democratic Sheriff candidate Chief Adamo was endorsed by Sheriff’s Department Undersheriffs and the Acting Sheriff. AFSCME Local 2272 endorsed Democratic primary candidate Speziale.
Former Governor Christie says he’s open to a third-party presidential run, according to SaveJersey.
ICYMI: Campos Medina’s defining image; Stack, Sacco unleash with renewed vigor; Baraka says ballot reform is ‘long overdue’; insiders absorbed contributions of Platkin, Fulop; BurlCo GOP endorsed candidates; in CD7, Kean v. Altman showcases a stark contrast in style; Devine indicted; Fulop rescinded Murphy endorsement; Campos-Medina blistered Camden Dems; in CD9, Pascrell fundraised amid building party drama; Insider NJ’s Who’s Up And Who’s Down; HCDO awarded line to Murphy, Camden Dems endorsed Murphy, Kim secured backing of AC Dems, Morris Dems endorsed Kim; MCDO announced candidates; Poll: Who will win the Dem Senate primary; Murphy secured the backing of MCDO; Murphy unleashed on Kim over TikTok; allies joined line lawsuit; Kim won Mercer Dems backing, won Ocean Dems backing, Murphy’s convention victory in Bergen, convention win in Somerset; Speziale blasted Adamo; Passaic Dems selected Adamo for sheriff, against off-the-line candidate Speziale; Fulop sees a ‘clear lane’; Murphy plans to ‘be everywhere’; Passaic GOP announced candidates
In Hoboken, the council passed legislation to improve the safety of electric vehicle food delivery. Councilwoman Jabbour responded to Councilwoman Fisher.
In Bradley Beach, the strife over the retired police chief has resulted in a legal battle, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Edison, the township is paying an ‘exorbitant’ $144k for a website update, according to MyCentralJersey.
In Hawthorne, schools are facing budget cuts, according to NorthJersey.com.
In Jersey City, the council approved an ordinance ending right turns on red in the Heights, according to Hudson County View.
In Millburn, the town is resisting affordable housing changes, according to WNYC.
In Montclair, Wendy Tibercio launched her Ward 3 council campaign, according to TAPinto.
In Mount Olive, the town is facing a civil rights lawsuit, according to NJ Hills.
In Newark, the lead water line replacement probe found more gaps, according to TAPinto.
In Ocean City, the rules on proposed beach rules are being challenged by the town, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
In Ocean Grove, rogue waves damaged the controversial cross-shaped pier, according to NJ.com.
In West Milford, the council advanced the effort to make the mayor’s position full-time, according to NorthJersey.com.
In West Orange, a judge gave a interim ruling on the township attorney, according to TAPinto.
In Westwood, schools are moving to ban secret teacher recordings, according to the Bergen Record.
ICYMI: In Hoboken, Dems endorsed Kim and Bhalla, Chair Hodes resigned; in Trenton, officials hoping for Starbucks change of heart
AROUND THE WEB:
Locked out: gatekeepers acted more like bouncers at a club than Dem party officials | Opinion
Patricia Campos-Medina
- This past weekend, I attempted to attend the Camden County Democratic Convention, an event I believed was crucial for engaging with Democratic party members, voters, and presenting my vision for New Jersey and our nation. I was physically denied entry into the convention.
Republican front-runner in Senate primary race backs Trump
Brenda Flanagan, NJ Spotlight
- Curtis Bashaw’s confidence is high as he campaigns to become the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate seat held by indicted Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ). “We are well-positioned as the front-runner. We’re the only campaign that is actually building infrastructure to compete statewide,” Bashaw said in an interview with NJ Spotlight News.
Something’s more rotten in Norcross land | Editorial
South Jersey Times Editorial Board
- No matter how Andy Kim’s lawsuit against “the county line” on New Jersey primary ballots turns out, the idea of a sitting governor backing his wife — Kim’s chief rival Tammy Murphy — for the Democrats’ U.S. Senate nomination is problematic.
Police prepare for crowds eager to see voyage of the U.S.S. New Jersey
Jim Walsh, Cherry Hill Courier-Post
- Want to watch the U.S.S. New Jersey float down the Delaware River? Keep these tips in mind before you head to the waterfront on Thursday: No traffic restrictions are currently planned for the city, which is hosting the public for a sending-off ceremony at 11 a.m. Thursday. The ship’s expected to leave its berth shortly after noon. “We will have lots of NJ State Police and Camden County police at the pier and promenade,” Jack Willard, a battleship spokesman, noted in an email.
The Next Passaic County Sheriff Is Going to be a Wayne Resident
Jon “Ferris” Meredith, TAPinto Wayne
- That headline is not exactly a bold prediction – all three candidates currently in the running for Passaic County Sheriff live in Wayne, so barring some major upset from an unknown candidate, the chances are good that our next sheriff will be a neighbor, a friend or someone you’ve seen at the grocery store.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. shouldn’t be a candidate for anything, including president | Kelly
Mike Kelly, NorthJersey.com
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a ridiculous candidate for president. There. I said it. Somebody has to. America’s most notable third-party presidential candidate shouldn’t be a candidate for anything — except perhaps “America’s Funniest Home Videos.” He’s a walking, jabbering cartoon. Only he’s not funny.
Massive $900 million two-county Route 80 project expected to last 10 years
Megan Burrow, NorthJersey.com
- A massive $900 million project is being planned to replace bridges and widen lanes on Route 80 west from Totowa to Hackensack. Construction on the federally funded project along a nearly 10-mile stretch of highway in Passaic and Bergen counties is expected to begin at Riverview Drive in Totowa in 2027 and be completed 10 years later in the fall of 2037 at Polifly Road in Hackensack.
Drive downtown Trenton economy with trolley service for state workers
LA Parker, The Trentonian
- Fact. New Jersey state employees play a key role in the successful economy of downtown Trenton. Second fact. To stay alive, the city needs their money. Since COVID-19 and the exodus of state employees to home work stations, Trenton looks deader than donuts. That being the case, Trenton officials should bend over backward to attract, protect and accommodate state employees.
Where do the fattest, heaviest drinking and smoking New Jersey residents live?
Mike Deak, MyCentralJersey.com
- Cumberland County, in far southern New Jersey, has the highest percentage of obese residents in the Garden State. The rural county also leads the state in the percentage of residents who smoke. But it’s two counties in central and northern New Jersey which top the list for percentage of people who are excessive drinkers.
Your guide to beach badge pricing along the Jersey Shore. Check back for updates
Juan Carlos Castillo, Asbury Park Press
- Sunscreen, beach towels, and … beach badges. As summer approaches the Jersey Shore, so does the annual ritual of planning beach trips. This list breaks down prices around the Shore, helping you budget and plan your perfect beach day.
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Insider NJ’s Daily News Update for March 22, 2024
Insider NJ’s daily news update for March 22, 2024, covers a wide range of topics that are important to residents of New Jersey. From politics to business to entertainment, this update provides a comprehensive look at what’s happening in the Garden State.
One of the top stories in today’s update is the latest on the upcoming gubernatorial election. With the race heating up, candidates are making their final pushes to win over voters. Insider NJ provides in-depth coverage of the candidates’ platforms, as well as analysis of the latest polls and predictions for the outcome of the election.
In addition to political news, Insider NJ also covers important business developments in the state. From new companies moving into the area to updates on existing businesses, this update keeps readers informed about the economic landscape of New Jersey.
Entertainment news is also a big focus of today’s update. From upcoming concerts and events to the latest celebrity gossip, Insider NJ has all the information readers need to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in the world of entertainment.
Overall, Insider NJ’s daily news update for March 22, 2024, is a must-read for anyone who wants to stay informed about what’s happening in New Jersey. Whether you’re interested in politics, business, or entertainment, this update has something for everyone. Be sure to check back daily for the latest news and updates from Insider NJ.
