PATERSON, NJ — Passaic County Sheriff Candidate Jerry Speziale is issuing the following statement:
“Speaking as a proud Democrat who was elected Sheriff three times running countywide as the Democratic Party’s candidate, I have made the difficult decision not to seek the county line in the June 4 Democratic Primary while I run to once again serve the people of Passaic County as their Sheriff.
“There are many reasons for my decision. First, I believe that the voters should pick the next Sheriff, not a handful of political insiders on a so-called screening committee. Let the people decide!
“That’s why I am joining the growing number of Democrats throughout the state who believe that this entire county line preferred ballot system is unfair and should be discarded. All the current system does is take power away from the people and give it to party bosses and machine politicians. New Jersey is the only state that still uses this archaic system and it should be abolished. I will not participate in a screening process that is based on a rigged, unfair system.
“Second, I also want all of my fellow Passaic County Democrats to know that it is clear that the county party’s intention is to allow an unelected party boss with no law enforcement experience to run the Sheriff’s Office. During one of several conversations we had about the campaign, Chairman John Currie told me he was imposing a ‘new structure’ where he would name the Undersheriffs and make all personnel and financial decisions within the department. Of course, I refused to even entertain this — any candidate who would agree to accept that kind of political interference would be unfit to serve as Sheriff.
“I have dedicated my life to fighting crime and protecting the equal rights of all people. I would never let myself be part of a corrupt system that empowers an unelected political boss to rule over a law enforcement agency. That’s not how it worked when I served three terms as Sheriff, and it will never happen if I am elected Sheriff again.
“It has been my honor to be an active member and strong supporter of the Passaic County Democratic Organization for decades. I personally campaigned for dozens of local, county, state and federal Democrats in office today and have raised funds and supported the party. My campaign has the unanimous support of the Passaic County Central Labor Council, the Passaic County Building Trades and many other unions that represent working men and women. They know that I will always be a proud, loyal Democrat who lives up to the values our party is based on.
“Together, we are going to win this election to keep the Sheriff’s Office independent of political interference and protect the people of Passaic County.”
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In a recent article published by Insider NJ, Speziale, a prominent figure in New Jersey politics, responded to criticism regarding his actions and decisions as a public official. The article highlighted various concerns raised by critics, including allegations of misconduct and unethical behavior.
Speziale, who serves as a key player in the state’s political landscape, did not shy away from addressing the criticisms head-on. In his response, he defended his actions and decisions, stating that he always acted in the best interest of the public and followed all ethical guidelines and protocols.
One of the main criticisms leveled against Speziale in the article was his handling of certain controversial issues, such as the allocation of funds and resources. Critics accused him of favoritism and playing politics with public resources. However, Speziale refuted these claims, stating that all decisions were made based on merit and necessity, with the ultimate goal of serving the community.
Another point of contention raised in the article was Speziale’s alleged lack of transparency and accountability in his role as a public official. Critics argued that he operated behind closed doors and failed to engage with the public in a meaningful way. In response, Speziale emphasized his commitment to transparency and openness, stating that he always made himself available to the public and welcomed feedback and input from all stakeholders.
Overall, the Insider NJ article shed light on some of the criticisms and concerns surrounding Speziale’s actions as a public official. While there may be differing opinions on his performance, it is clear that Speziale is not afraid to address criticism and defend his record. As a key figure in New Jersey politics, his responses to these criticisms will undoubtedly shape public perception of his leadership and decision-making moving forward.
