LEONARDO – If Bill Spadea gets to the governor’s office, his first 100 days – the traditional benchmark – are going to be different.
How so?
Spadea says he’s not going to worry about getting his program or bills through the Legislature.
Not him.
Spadea says he will govern by issuing a slew of executive orders. The public can judge him on that.
Spadea, the radio host turned gubernatorial candidate, made the comments Thursday evening at a “town hall” meeting at the local American Legion hall in this Monmouth County town. About 75 people attended.
Before he began, he noted a truck parked outside with an audio claiming Spadea backs “illegals.”
He dismissed the critics, claiming they have boiled down 15,000 hours of his radio show to a few out of context seconds.
“When you’re protesting, you’re losing,” he said.
Many Monmouth County Republicans have endorsed Jack Ciattarelli for governor – the man Spadea seems to consider his main opponent.
Spadea long has criticized the state’s GOP establishment and he did so again on Thursday, noting that the problem with New Jersey is “woke Democrats” and “weak Republicans.”
As for the “backroom guys,” he said, “They bully, they intimidate, they push.”
The executive orders, of which he spoke, would quickly begin implementing what Spadea calls a “common sense” agenda.
A lot of what he talks about concerns public schools and education.
Spadea wants to concentrate on the basics and eliminate DEI and vaccine mandates. He also wants to provide tax credits to stay at home moms and to promote home schooling.
He said he would quickly get rid of New Jersey’s status as a “sanctuary state,” use the National Guard to crack down on illegal immigration and, if necessary, reopen county jails to house people.
Generally speaking, bail reform has reduced the state’s inmate population, but Spadea said he wants to end bail reform. While many Republicans agree, it is worth noting that bail reform, which helps minor offenders stay out of jail, was done by Gov. Chris Christie.
Asked about small businesses, Spadea criticized the state’s $15-plus minimum wage and said one way to get around it may be for businesses to hire “interns.” This seems like it may not be legal, but that’s an issue for the future.
There have not been very many public polls on this primary race, but the ones we have seen show Ciattarelli, the 2021 candidate, as the frontrunner.
Spadea is unconcerned, saying:
“As more people get to know me, my numbers will go up.”
In a recent interview with Insider NJ, mayoral candidate Anthony Spadea discussed his plans for strong executive leadership in Trenton if elected. Spadea, a seasoned political veteran with a background in business and community service, outlined his vision for revitalizing the city and addressing its most pressing issues.
One of Spadea’s key priorities is improving public safety in Trenton. He emphasized the need for increased police presence and community policing initiatives to combat crime and make residents feel safer in their neighborhoods. Spadea also stressed the importance of investing in programs that address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of access to education and job opportunities.
In addition to public safety, Spadea highlighted his plans for economic development in Trenton. He emphasized the importance of attracting new businesses to the city and supporting existing ones to create jobs and stimulate growth. Spadea also discussed the need for infrastructure improvements and revitalization projects to make Trenton a more attractive place for residents and businesses alike.
When it comes to education, Spadea expressed his commitment to improving schools and providing students with the resources they need to succeed. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the city government, school district, and community organizations to ensure that all children have access to a quality education.
Overall, Spadea’s platform is focused on bringing positive change to Trenton through strong executive leadership and a commitment to addressing the city’s most pressing issues. If elected, he promises to work tirelessly to make Trenton a safer, more prosperous, and more vibrant place for all residents.
