How to strike the right note in this diary. Now, that's a challenge. As someone who has been an outspoken fan of primaries, I certainly can't and won't join the chorus of Democratic leaders horrified by Steve Rothman's decision to run against Bill Pascrell in a primary solely because a primary is expensive or can be divisive. Sometimes, primaries are important ideological fights and can be valuable party-building opportunities.
Unfortunately, the situation in NJ-9 is clearly neither: Steve Rothman, unhappy with the outcome of Congressional Redistricting, is moving from his home in Fair Lawn 10 miles east to somewhere in Englewood for the sole purpose of challenging his fellow Democrat, Bill Pascrell, because he calculates that's the best way to stay in Congress.
Instead of using his sizeable war chest - and up to $2 million additional dollars of funding from the DCCC - to challenge Scott Garrett, we now get to watch him spend that money against his friend, a democratic colleague with whom he has no ideological or political dispute. At a minimum, I considered this a disappointing decision, which I assumed was reached after much soul-searching.
So, I was shocked to learn that Rothman never seriously weighed running against Republican Scott Garrett. While nearly every democrat in New Jersey rejoiced at what appeared to be the potential finally to take out our most conservative tea-party Congressman, Steve Rothman never even seriously considered that opportunity.
That's a huge loss for the Democratic Party. Rothman is running away from a winnable fight with Scott Garrett, and running against one of the most effective - and most progressive - members of Congress. If the City of Paterson had been moved into Scott Garrett's district, we all know Bill Pascrell would be all in trying to take Garrett out. And that contrast is something I think Democrats can and should fairly take into consideration when evaluating who they are supporting this June.
It's no secret where I stand. I was on a long list of Bergen, Hudson and Passaic County officials endorsing Bill Pascrell. I'm standing with Pascrell for a lot of reasons - his strong record fighting for the middle class, his tireless work to obtain national park status for the Great Falls and his commitment to job creation. But I'm also disappointed. Disappointed Rothman would rather start this fight than take on a Tea Party Republican we've been trying to oust for years.
As the Record's Al Doblin noted, if Rothman were to run against Garrett, "Even if [he] lost, he would win" - a hero among democrats for taking on the fight. Instead, Rothman's putting himself in a position where the exact opposite might happen.
I'm still hoping he reconsiders. Or at least gives it serious consideration.
Today 21 union locals announced support for Congressman Bill Pascrell in his primary fight. Bill Mullen, President of the New Jersey State Building and Constructions Trade Council put it best: "Moving your home to challenge one of your own doesn't make sense. That's why we're standing by Congressman Bill Pascrell." And he is 100% right. Bill Pascrell isn't moving anywhere. I can say with certainty that if he was drawn into a district with Scott Garrett he wouldn't be running from the fight. He would take it head on like he has every race in his career.
That is the most disappointing part of Rothman's decision to move into Pascrell's district. There is a golden opportunity to take out one of the most extreme, ideologically driven members of Congress. A man who wants to drill for oil on New Jersey's shores, voted against reauthorizing the Voting Rights Act and refused to support funding for Hurricane Katrina victims. Garrett refuses to compromise on anything and epitomizes everything that is wrong with Washington D.C. right now. Instead of taking this fight to Garrett - someone Rothman disagrees with on almost every issue - he is fighting his own, another progressive Democrat who he almost always agrees with.
It makes no sense.
It is no secret that I'm a strong Pascrell supporter. Since my first race for the Haledon Board of Education right up until my election as the Mayor of Haledon he has been behind me. Bill Pascrell didn't start this fight. But you can rest assured he is going to end it.
This is such an interesting coda to the diary I wrote last night. In my read, it's both sad and inspiring. For sure, Joe Lieberman didn't deserve Stephen, who is a candidate for office right now Berkeley Heights Township Council - Rosi
I read Rosi's article on the front page of Blue Jersey with great interest. It was wonderful to see how she and so many NJ-DFA members came up to Connecticut to support a progressive Democrat in Ned Lamont.
However, I have a confession to make: not only was I not among them, but at the time I was trying to help his opponent win renomination. It was a futile effort on my part, and one I now regret.
Here we go again in Hawthorne. Those of you who follow me on Twitter or are friends with me on Facebook may have wondered over the last day or so what I was alluding to when talking about anti-gay politicking in Hawthorne. Well, here's the story:
Anti-gay politicking fails again in Hawthorne
We have 4 Ward Council races this year, and in 3 of those Wards, we had an uncontested primary yesterday. But, one of our candidates - Rob VanDeusen, an Iraq War veteran and volunteer firefighter - faced a contested primary against a perennial candidate in town, Phil Speulda, who stooped to new lows in dirty campaigning, using hateful language that has no place in Hawthorne, let alone in a Democratic primary anywhere.
Speulda delivered the pictured palmcard throughout the Ward, announcing:
As you may know our Hawthorne Democratic County Committee and the Row A Passaic County Democratic Organization, Inc. Line has been hi-jacked by a fringe special interest group that raises their money from gay marriage activists who don't represent our Good Old Fashion Christian Values no less know the issues of our good town of Hawthorne.
(Hmmm. Now where have I heard language like that before in Hawthorne?)
The palmcard goes on to call our candidate "IRRESPONSIBLE and FLAMBOYANT" and asks voters to choose "The Alternate Democratic Candidate running against The Alternate Lifestyle Candidate." It closes with a photo plucked from Facebook that was probably foolish to post, but certainly not salacious in any way, and proclaims "Don't Ask Don't Tell" to suggest/remind the reader that Rob VanDeusen is gay. (Rob is also Jewish, but these days it is hard to tell which "Good Old Fashion Christian Values" one is not living up to.)
So, what to do? Should we have complained loudly about the piece ahead of the primary? Maybe. But, we chose instead to focus on our GOTV operation, and the results spoke for themselves: Rob won the primary 70%-30%. Chalk one up for the good people of Hawthorne who rejected bigotry for the second consecutive year.
But, here's the most interesting part: the paid-for line. Ah, the paid-for line. The paid-for line on this piece says: "printed on home printer with leftover 2007 campaign material" (I told you he was a perennial candidate). The problem is, we know this candidate has no home computer, let alone a home printer, let alone a color printer. Nor is he on Facebook. And this piece is very obviously professionally designed and printed, in full color, two-sided, perfectly cut, and with graphic design far above the skills of this candidate (or me for that matter).
Someone paid for this hit piece - there is no doubt about it. Someone who did not want people to know about their involvement. Someone who would be embarrassed (at least) if they were exposed as financing Speulda's campaign. So, on the heels of another victory in Hawthorne, we've got our next mission: to find out who financed this hate lit, and expose them.
Today is Primary Day in New Jersey, and polls are open from 6a to 8p. You should vote! (and here's the dirty secret why):
Even after statewide redistricting this year, it remains a fact that the vast majority of legislative districts in the state are a virtual shoo-in for one party or the other in November. That means in the vast majority of legislative districts in the state, the only real election that will take place this year for representation in Trenton is happening today.
That's why it's not just registered Democrats and Republicans who should care about today's primary. Every voter should care - because your Senator and your Assemblymembers are mostly being chosen today, not in November. And, for Democrats in Democratic districts, that means the winners are the people who will be expected to take the fight to Gov. Chris Christie for the next two years.
In most places, there is no contested primary. But, in those few places where there actually are contested primaries, you need to vote, and you need to choose wisely. Who will better represent you for the next 2 years? Who will stand up to Chris Christie? And, who will stand up for Democrats and progressive principles?
If you know that, then you know who deserves to represent you in Trenton. So, go vote! :)
Oy. To me, this question illustrates perfectly the perils of Dawn Zimmer's simpatico relationship with Gov. Christie, though her supporters see more upside to that, I think. But how does this look to those of you in Hoboken and the 33rd District? Who wants to weigh in and advise him? - promoted by Rosi
I'm a liberal Democrat (the type Robert Gibbs would call a "professional leftist" though I've never been paid), recently moved into New Jersey. I suddenly find there's a primary (33rd AD, which includes my Jersey City neighborhood). There are three candidates for two seats.
I read that Ruben Ramos, Jr. (incumbent) and Sean Connors were backed by Senator Brian Stack, who had said he might support Christie in 2013. That inclined me to vote for the insurgent (non-Hudson County Democratic Organization) candidate, Ravi Bhalla -- until I read that his main backer, Mayor Dawn Zimmer of Hoboken, had said the same thing.
Can anyone tell me anything good or bad about any of these candidates?
Weigh in, especially you Union County folks - Rosi
By Stephen Yellin - I am proud to be on the ballot for the June 7th primary on Column A. I am also a candidate for Township Council in Berkeley Heights.
This isn't a 'me-first' rally - this is a 'community-first' rally...a worker's rights rally!
- Joe Cryan, March 3 2011 (standing with union workers in Trenton)
He's going to do a wonderful, fabulous job as our next Governor.
- Tony Monteiro, November 4 2009 (at Chris Christie's victory party)
On June 7th, Democrats in the 20th Legislative District (Elizabeth, Hillside, Roselle and Union) have a clear choice to make. They have a choice between the regular Democratic ticket, whose Democratic Party credentials aren't in question, and a renegade group called "Democrats for Change".
Just who are these "Democrats for Change", and what do they stand for? Examining the facts paints a troubling picture of this group, and its candidates for the State Legislature in the 20th District. This ticket has managed to combine the 2 worst problems confronting New Jersey today: a corrupt, unaccountable political machine and the enabling of Chris Christie's destructive, divisive policies across our state.
Almost all the fun primary action in Passaic County this year is on the Republican side (for a change). In what has been an ongoing battle between the current Republican Chairman, and the old Republican Chairman, Republicans have contested races up and down the ballot throughout the county. And, at least in Hawthorne - special bonus - the old Republican Chairman has made common cause with the Tea Party faction of the party (we really have one!), resulting in this delightful video, which seems poised for a November comeback:
Now, technically, we do have one primary race in Hawthorne on the Democratic side - in the 2nd Ward, currently held by incumbent Republican John Bertollo who's referenced in the video. (Psst: Vote Rob VanDeusen!)
This beauty was made in support of the Tea Party candidates, and against the old guard. But you may recognize the format from the classic anti-Tea Party video that awaits on the flip side. Still funny.
As you know by now, Blue Jersey's part of a national money bomb for Jeff Gardner's Senate primary campaign against 30-year incumbent John Girgenti. It's been a 10-day lead-up. And it all happens today - ticktickBOOM. Money bomb is a concentrated effort to ramp up focus & fundraising for a priority campaign, in a one-day burst. Today. This is Jeff's first money bomb, and Blue Jersey's. And it's trending hot. Can you join us?
THANK YOU to everybody who's already contributed. Every amount powers up Jeff's campaign, and gets us closer to having a fine and tough progressive working for his District and for all of us. So, at around 3:20pm, with hours left to go, here's an update:
None of us has ever done this before, and we didn't know what to expect. Your response is off-the-charts. We breezed past our $1,000 initial goal early this morning, and we're now pushing toward a goal of $5,000 or more today. And the buzz is ramping up. Jeff just finished his 2nd live-chat of the week at BlueAmerica's page at Crooks & Liars. And today, there were two posts about Jeff on the Recommended list at Daily Kos.
Everyone here knows Jeff's story. We know how strong of a leader he would be in the State Senate. We know his commitment to progressive ideals and local organizing. The bottom line is we need more people like him running for office. If we don't take back the Democratic Party now - when are we going to?
That is why I'm hoping everyone who is able will commit to donating this Thursday for the Jeff Gardner for Senate money bomb. Jeff doesn't have special interests or Trenton lobbyists donating to his campaign. He doesn't have employees at various state authorities filling his campaign coffers. He has normal people like you and me. People that care about who is representing us. People tired of so many failed policies coming out of Trenton. People who want to make a difference.
If you aren't financially able to donate, there are plenty of other ways you can chip in to help his campaign. Spread the word about his Facebook and Twitter pages. Post a blog. Write a letter to the editor. Reach out to the campaign and canvass on the weekend in the district. Every little bit will help.
My friendship with Jeff goes back three years. After meeting via the common link of Passaic County on this site, we had coffee and talked about the County Committee and turning red towns blue. To this day, his apt for organizing and energy for democratic ideals never ceases to amaze me. We need him fighting for us in Trenton.
Full disclosure: I'm working on Jeff's Senate campaign.
Interesting that the primary challenger here is a person who did everything he could to get the incumbent, John Adler, elected, and is now so disappointed that he can't sit by and let Adler go unchallenged. Adler should pay attention to this, the number of people his choices have alienated. - - promoted by Rosi Efthim
Greetings!
My name is Barry Bendar and I am running for Congress in New Jersey's 3rd District.
Like many of you, I'm an ordinary working class American. I'm married with two great children. I work as a database administrator during the day while I spend my evenings and weekends volunteering for good government. I became involved in politics 8 years ago at the municipal level. I jumped in feet first and became the Lacey Township Democratic Municipal Chairman while at the same time helping to raise money for and participating in campaigns for our local, county and state Democratic candidates.
Thanks for writing, Mayor. Promoted from the diaries by Rosi
Earlier this week I was proud to stand with Congressman Bill Pascrell to highlight more than $5 million dollars being spent in Haledon from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to modernize our sewers, improve our infrastructure, and make Haledon's water supply cleaner.
The Manchester Utilities Authority began receiving monthly installments of a $3.7 million sub-grant from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The fund is part of the federal stimulus package distributed through the state Department of Environmental Protection and will ensure the water quality is high in Haledon. It was a great day for Haledon and another great step forward for our community.
As the Mayor of Haledon over the last 4 years we have seen many improvements. We've taken an outside the box approach to solving problems, responsibly dealing with our budget, and an eye towards always putting the residents of Haledon first. I am proud to announce the launching of my new campaign website - www.DomenickStampone.com - for the upcoming June Primary campaign. This site will serve as a hub of information, resources, and updates from the campaign trail as we continue our goal of improving Haledon.
Each week, Blue Jersey Radio streams LIVE with New Jersey's latest political buzz, interviews with newsmakers, and your stimulating calls.
This week: We're joined by NJ-3 Congressional Candidate Barry Bendar seeking the democratic nomination in New Jersey's 3rd District.
What? We already have a democratic congressman in NJ-3 you say? You betcha! But, since the incumbent couldn't see Healthcare Reform from his house, someone else wants to give it a try. Looks like we have an actual contested primary - in America no less. You don't see that every day.
So, what exactly does Barry have in mind in challenging an incumbent Congressman?
Find out from the candidate himself:
Have questions of your own to ask? Drop 'em in the comments, then tune in and join the conversation! And, of course - you can always give us a call and have your say. That number again is: 646-652-2773.
I do not think Leonard Lance can be beaten in a Republican Primary. Even if David Larsen won, he would be cut out in redistricting in 2012."
Doherty's statement is sure to anger some of the same people that put him in office, but his decision seems to be more about is own political standing and thinking Lance is the safe bet so it's better to keep his powder dry in this one. Larsen will need to raise some seed money to show people he's serious and not just looking to loan his campaign money for the effort. I'm told that Lance won't be the only Republican to get a challenge from the tea party crowd as someone may run against Frank Lobiondo.
Then in the seats held by Democrats, there are a few primary races to run against the Incumbent. There are numerous candidate running in the 3rd district and Justin Murphy could also get support from the tea partiers as he runs again this year. There is also the primary to run against Rush Holt as Mike Halfacre and Scott Sipprelle will face off in a right v. further right battle and there may be more candidates to jump in the race. Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini and others have expressed interest in challenging to run against Frank Pallone as well. The tea partiers are even saying they may put someone up against Scott Garrett from the right, if that's possible in comments to stories that are being written. The amount of candidate running in GOP primaries can be seen as an indication of the enthusiasm and also anger out there with the public right now, who only want to see 8% of incumbent re-elected right now.
By contrast, the Democrats in New Jersey don't seem to like primaries as much. The only primary challenge I've seen so far is one against John Adler, but his warchest will make that an uphill climb. I know inside political circles they tend to shy away from primaries, because it makes you spend resources you want to conserve for the general election battle and take stands you often don't want to defend. But sometimes primaries can better prepare candidates for the trial by fire that is a general election campaign. Even if the GOP candidates don't win their primary challenges, the incumbents will already be in campaign mode given the voter angst right now. The competitive primaries to challenge Democratic incumbents will season them for the rigors of a race. With the climate and public opinion where it is, it's important that candidates don't wait to start their campaigns and these primaries insure that the GOP won't.
Jeff Van Drew (D-Dennis)
Shirley Turner (D-Trenton)
Nicholas Sacco (D-North Bergen)
Ronald Rice (D-Newark)
John Girgenti (D-Hawthorne)
Fred Madden (D-Washinton Twp)
James Beach (D-Cherry Hill)
Stephen Sweeney (D-West Deptford)
Paul Sarlo (D-Wood-ridge)
Senator Van Drew is honestly the only person on this list who deserves a pass, his district is just overwhelmingly Republican.
I've never been more disgusted and embarrassed than I was today to be a Democrat.
Can we make this the official primary candidate suggestion list?
Senator Buono should be Jon Corzine's pick for Lieutenant Governor, she the progressive fiscally responsible choice for Lieutenant Governor. As chair of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee she has stood up to tough special interests for the good of the people of NJ.
With a newly elected 85 year old Senator the speculation about who will be Frank Lautenberg's replacement is inevitable. With a deep bench of Democratic politicians awaiting his retirement the race for his seat is sure to be hard fought and sought after. In my opinion there are two ways the race for Lautenberg's seat will play out:
1. Lautenberg retires and the Governor appoints his replacement;
2. Lautenberg serves his 6 year term in its entirety and there is a primary
for the Democratic nomination in 2014.
There is a long list of powerful New Jersey politicians who covet Lautenberg's seat. Congressmen Rothman, Pallone, and Andrews would surely throw their hats in the ring. Whoever the Lt. Gov is (assuming Corzine wins reelection) will most likely consider a run, and in my opinion the best positioned potential candidate, Mayor Cory Booker, is widely known to have ambitions to higher office.
Not surprisingly, New Jersey as such is rarely mentioned in these high level memos. As many warned, we got lumped into the big February 5 Super Tuesday. It's good to see that Mark Penn did value Corzine enough to view his endorsement as a significant April 2007 development, on par with Iowa Governor Vilsack.
After that, the main interest of the leaked memos is in the predictions of the outcome. On January 21, 2008, senior adviser Guy Cecil included New Jersey in his predictions. His memo considered New Jersey one of only four Clinton "Base States" and predicted the following primary results (Clinton-Obama):
Vote: 56%-44%
Statewide Delegates: 21-16
District Delegates: 39-31
Total Delegates: 60-47
This was pretty good: The actual results were 55% - 45%, statewide delegates 21-16, district delegates 38-32, and total 59-48.
The memo specifically lists Delegate Districts 10 as a 3-delegate district they should target and Districts 16 and 17 as additional targets to pick up delegates. At first, I thought this was an excellent decision as Clinton picked up +1, +1, and +2 net delegates in those districts. Clinton got 52% of the vote in NJ10 to pick up an extra district, so that targeting decision was definitely right on. On the other hand, vote breakdown, Clinton actually easily blew by the thresholds in NJ16 and NJ17, and I can't help but think some effort in District 2, or districts 12 and 18, would have been more valuable. If I read the 21 January internal targeting projections correctly, Clinton's campaign aimed for the minimum threshold in these districts, when in reality they fell just missed the higher threshold to pick up additional delegates on February 5.
Assessment: B+: The Clinton campaign predicted the vote within 1% and the delegate breakdown within one. The three districts Cecil wanted targeted provided a net +4 delegates, most of the Clinton district-level +6 victory margin. So far so good, but when I look at the district breakdowns I wonder what they were doing in districts 2, 12, and 18, where a few percent more would have picked up additional delegates. So I give them a B+, but only with the benefit of hindsight.
