Friday, February 14, 2025

Every American Should Watch This Two Minutes

Former hostage Keith Siegel released this video message to President Trump: "My name is Keith Siegel, and I am a 65-year-old American citizen. I love country music and I love pancakes on a Saturday morning. But that was my previous life. Since February 1st, I am a newly released Hamas hostage. I am a survivor. I was held for 484 days in unimaginable conditions, and every single day felt like it could be my last. President Trump, you are the reason I am home alive. You are the reason I was reunited with my beloved wife, four children, and five grandchildren. Thank you for your continued fight against terror and for your bold leadership that brought me and many others back home to our families, to safety and to security. When I was in Gaza, I lived in constant fear, fear for my life and my personal safety. I was starved and tortured both physically and emotionally. When the war intensified, the terrorists who held me treated me even worse than usual. The terrorists kicked me, spat on me, and held me with no water, no light, and no air to breathe. Mr. President, once again your leadership, power, and authority are necessary to enforce the cease-fire and put an end to the unnecessary daily dangers and to the lives of innocent hostages and civilians. Your leadership and strength will ensure the agreement is honored by all sides. That is what will allow all 76 hostages to return home to their families.

I trust your strength and leadership, Mr. President. The helpless hostages in the dark, cold tunnels in Gaza also trust you. Please bring them home." 

Hooray! Vance Tells Europe What It Needs To Hear!

And Now This, From Mark Halperin . . .


 

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Testa Decries NJ Rate Hikes, Wants BPU Abolished

Pallotta Enters NJ 39th LD Assembly Race

Frank Pallotta (R-Mahwah), a public servant and former Trump-endorsed Republican House Candidate for Congress, today announced his candidacy for New Jersey State Assembly representing the 39th Legislative District, further positioning New Jersey for potential national attention in 2025. He has also announced he will not participate in the Bergen County Convention, joining others across the State who have made the same decision.


Pallotta: "While I have great respect for the Bergen County Republican Organization's (BCRO) approximately 800 Committee members, of which I remain an active member, I cannot in good conscience participate in an obsolete and antiquated convention process that can drag on for months, draining tens of thousands of dollars and critical resources away from what really matters – direct voter engagement." 


Pallotta feels that "the main purpose of the county convention in past years had been to win placement on an organizational line – a line which no longer exists."


Pallotta emphasized that campaigns should focus on a direct connection with voters, not backroom deals. "Every minute spent courting a small circle of political insiders is a minute stolen from the families, workers, and small business owners who make our community strong," he says. He feels that his "proven track record of fighting political corruption within the senior ranks of Bergen County Organizational leadership is documented and well-known throughout the region" and will enhance his standing in the race.


He says his campaign will focus on the critical issues facing District 39, including public safety, law enforcement, flood mitigation, crumbling infrastructure, overdevelopment, and the high cost of living.


Pallotta maintains that the campaign's approach, coupled with his "unique position as the only candidate in the race who had previously received a Trump endorsement, signals a new era in New Jersey politics that prioritizes a return to a conservative agenda, and a focus on the issues."


Recently, six-term, LD39 Assemblyman Bob Auth publicly rejected President Donald Trump, when he chose to align with, and endorse for Governor, self-proclaimed Trump-hater, State Senator Jon Bramnick.SAccording to Pallotta: "While Auth calls himself a 'conservative,' his actions tell a far different story. He remained silent when Bramnick defended Democrats who supported the ill-named 'Freedom to Read Act' (or 'Grindr bill') that allows for the placement of inappropriate, sexually explicit reading materials in school libraries." Politico also reported in 2024 that Bramnick "vowed to not vote for the former president in the 2024 presidential election" and even hosted a cocktail reception for Democratic Governor Phil Murphy at his home. Pallotta argues that despite all this, Auth has still endorsed Bramnick. Pallotta says "this kind of betrayal cannot be ignored. It’s time for a change in District 39. I know that I am better qualified to represent the good people who call District 39 home."


Pallotta has encoruaged everyone to visit his campaign website (www.PallottaForAssembly.com) and reach out with any questions or comments. He concludes: "Together, let's build a relationship that gives voters the genuine representation they deserve – one that leads with sound policies reflecting the will of the people. Let's get this done!"

The 39th District includes Allendale, Alpine, Cresskill, Closter, Demarest, Dumont, Emerson, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Ho-Ho-Kus, Mahwah, Midland Park, Montvale, Northvale, Norwood, Oakland, Old Tappan, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, Rockleigh, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, Waldwick, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake. 

Another Senseless, Outrageous Move By Andy Kim!

Watch New Jersey US Senator Andy Kim explain ("in one minute") why he voted against the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to be the Secretary of Health and Human Services in President Trump's cabinet. 
Kim has voted the straight Democrat line again and again, so this is no surprise. And, it's also no surprise that in his statement Kim mentions himself (I, me and mine) 15 times. That's 15 times in 60 seconds! 
So, Kim's vote against RFK Jr. is not about you. Instead, it's all about HIM -- his life, his children, his family, his parents, etc. etc. This is quintessential Kim: selfish, self-centered, simplistic and immature. He freely and irresponsible uses his own family to prop up his senseless, radical, obstructive actions. Outrageous!

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

This Man Was Way, WAY Ahead Of His Time!

Rush Limbaugh was decades ahead, to be exact. He foresaw it all. Imagine how long we put up with the nonsense of wokeness -- and we are only now beginning to effectively confront it and, hopefully, eliminate it. Thank you, Rush. We miss you and wish you were here to see the progress we're making.

US Catholic Archbishop Praises President Trump

Catholic Archbishop of Kansas City, Joseph Naumann, commended US President Donald Trump and his administration for their efforts in addressing national security concerns related to immigration. An excerpt from his statement follows:

Those elected to lead our nation are responsible to protect the integrity of our country and keep safe the citizens of the United States. Allowing violent gangs, individuals with serious criminal histories, dealers of lethal illegal drugs, human traffickers and those who pose threats to our national security to enter our country and harm U.S. citizens is a serious dereliction of duty by our elected leaders. I commend President Trump and those in his administration for addressing this serious, national threat.

It is inconceivable that our previous administration either did not know or care about the location or the circumstances of approximately 300,000 children and youth who entered the United States during the past four years. We do not know how many of them have become victims of human trafficking, gangs and drug dealers. This is a national disgrace. I salute President Trump and his administration for making it a priority to find these lost children and youth.


First Lady Reopens White House To Public Tours!


First Lady Melania Trump announced today that the White House will officially open for public tours on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

“The President and I are excited to reopen the White House to those interested in the extraordinary story of this iconic and beautiful landmark. There is much to learn about the American Presidency, the First Families who have lived here, and our Nation’s rich history from a firsthand experience at the White House. This opportunity is unique among nations around the globe—a tradition we are honored to continue for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come each year,” said First Lady Melania Trump.

Public tours must be requested through Members of Congress, and requests may be submitted up to three months in advance. Tours are scheduled on a first-come-first-served basis.

Tours are self-guided, typically last 45 minutes, and will generally be available from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday as well as 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday through Saturday (excluding Federal holidays or unless otherwise noted). When possible, public tour hours will be extended based on the official White House schedule.

For more information, including what visitors will need to access the White House campus, please visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/Visit.

Border Czar With A Lesson For The Pope

Trump Speaks With Putin, Says War Will End

Here's the latest from President Trump:

 @realDonaldTrump
I just had a lengthy and highly productive phone call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. We discussed Ukraine, the Middle East, Energy, Artificial Intelligence, the power of the Dollar, and various other subjects. We both reflected on the Great History of our Nations, and the fact that we fought so successfully together in World War II, remembering, that Russia lost tens of millions of people, and we, likewise, lost so many! We each talked about the strengths of our respective Nations, and the great benefit that we will someday have in working together. But first, as we both agreed, we want to stop the millions of deaths taking place in the War with Russia/Ukraine. President Putin even used my very strong Campaign motto of, “COMMON SENSE.” We both believe very strongly in it. We agreed to work together, very closely, including visiting each other’s Nations. We have also agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately, and we will begin by calling President Zelenskyy, of Ukraine, to inform him of the conversation, something which I will be doing right now. I have asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of the CIA John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, to lead the negotiations which, I feel strongly, will be successful. Millions of people have died in a War that would not have happened if I were President, but it did happen, so it must end. No more lives should be lost! I want to thank President Putin for his time and effort with respect to this call, and for the release, yesterday, of Marc Fogel, a wonderful man that I personally greeted last night at the White House. I believe this effort will lead to a successful conclusion, hopefully soon!
 
See the Truth here.

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

China Grabs NJ EZ Pass; State Reps Demand Inquiry!

 

And About That Super Bowl Halftime Show . . .

From our friend Patrick Cassio via facebook:

All day yesterday in many social media quarters, I'm reading it’s your fault if you’re too dense and didn’t understand the Halftime “show “ of the SuperBowl.
The “ artist “ is a genius and we should have paid better attention to what he was trying to say .
Well, that’s interesting . . .
So now under the guise of “entertainment” , we are now scolded to ACCEPT what some narcissist believed the audience watching a game should watch but he failed with HIS confusing and dark message ?
Yelling out garbled rapping and words no one could even comprehend ..
What a bunch of BS and just more division in our society .
Bottom line.
Let’s remember the roles here .
Entertainer is supposed to entertain
Audience watches and they DECIDE what they enjoy

On Friday, Let's Show Some Class, Philly!

Its beloved Eagles (aka Iggles) have won the Super Bowl. And Philadelphia is in a state of sustained, giddy glee. The whole city is bathed in green and people are already festooned in Eagles gear in the lead up to Wednesday's Big Parade.

Yes, the Eagles have won. But can Philly and its denizens really begin to feel and act like genuine winners? Put another way, does the Eagles' drubbing of Kansas City finally make Philly a winning town?

We ask this because Philadelphia, stuck between those behemoths of New York and Washington, has always felt overshadowed by the nation's center of commerce to the north and its center of power to the south. When a town that normally would be able to stand tall on its own merits finds itself woefully eclipsed like this, you can understand how it might develop an inferiority complex -- the kind that leads to a hard luck mentality and triggers periodic bursts of feigned bravado laced with resentment. 

Consider 1980 when the Phillies won their first World Series victory in decades. It was a magical moment, yet Tug McGraw still felt the need to proclaim: “New York can take this championship and stick it!”  Then again in 2018, at the Eagles Super Bowl celebration Jason Kelce sang "nobody loves us, we don't care" and gratuitously dropped the F bomb, just as Phillies player Chase Utley did in 2008 at his team's World Series celebration. And who can forget the 1972-73 Flyers hockey team that proudly donned the monicker "Broad Street Bullies," embracing its pugnacious (and arguably, violent) ways. At moments such as these, you have to ask yourself: what kind of message does this send?


The other night the bullies were out again on Broad Street, this time in the form of young hooligans who "celebrated" by lighting fires in the middle of the street and tearing down traffic lights (see video). Just two weeks prior when the Eagles won the NFC championship a college student tragically died when he fell from a utility pole during that night's Broad Street antics.

When it comes to winning pro sports titles (baseball, basketball, football and hockey) Philadelphia comes in at number six, behind Detroit, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston and, you guessed it, New York. The Big Apple is the undisputed champ with 54 titles. But then again, it has twice as many teams. Boston (a smaller town than Philly) has an impressive 40 titles. The numbers then drop off into the 20s with Philly at exactly 20 championship titles so far, easily distancing Pittsburgh at 17. That's certainly nothing to be ashamed of. In fact to be just shy of the top five among 12 major cities (even way ahead of Washington and arch enemy Dallas) should be a source of immense, genuine proud -- the type of pride that can and should speak for itself.

So starting now, let's chuck the thuggery, Philly. Ditch the vulgarity, too. Knock that chip off your shoulder and do yourself proud. Show some class and act like a winner! You'll be better -- and stand taller -- for it.

Visionary Living Spaces From The Mind Of Elon!


 

Word is Elon Musk is set to transform the future of affordable living. Look at this $10,000 house, a groundbreaking innovation that promises to revolutionize the housing market. Developed by Musk's company, this compact, energy-efficient, and high-tech home pushes the boundaries of sustainable living. Think about the savings involved in owning a futuristic, off-the-grid home that’s more affordable than some smartphones—a reality that may no longer a distant dream. Musk’s visionary project incorporates cutting-edge technology with a potential impact on the market and millions of lives of families and individuals who may be able to enjoy modern, efficient, affordable living. 
H/T: Flight Guardian

Monday, February 10, 2025

Hegseth: Fort Liberty? No, It's FORT BRAGG!

Triump And The Dance That Truly Endures!

When A Headline Really Says It All . . .






















Please don't make the mistake of feeling sorry for this woman. And don't make the mistake of feeling sorry for him, either . . .


Trump And Andrew Jackson? HOORAY!


 

Andrew Jackson succeeded in paying off the entire debt of the United States in 1835. With no federal income tax! Jackson was a populist who used broad executive power to reshape America and set it on the right course.

The Night The Iggles Ruled The World!

Wipeout? Nah . . . 

It was a GREENOUT!


Sunday, February 9, 2025

She Insists On Making A Fool Of Herself!




 

Trump Off To Fast Start, Wins High Marks

New polling from CBS News shows Americans are overwhelmingly positive about President Donald J. Trump’s return to office and his commitment to making good on his promises.
Here’s what you need to know:
 
  • President Trump’s approval rating — 53% — is higher than it has ever been in CBS News polling.
     
  • Almost six-in-ten Americans back President Trump’s deportations of illegal immigrants, while two-thirds support sending U.S. troops to secure the southern border.
     
  • A majority of Americans support President Trump’s efforts to secure peace in the Israel-Hamas war.
     
  • 70% of Americans say President Trump is making good on his promises.
     
  • Most Americans describe President Trump as "tough," "energetic," "focused," "effective,” and “competent.”
 
Promises made, promises kept — and he’s just getting started.

Remembering Talented, Affable Tony Roberts

Tony Roberts, 1939 - 2025
One of Broadway's brightest stars has passed on.

Tony Roberts, who died at the age of 85, had a genial stage personality perfect for musical comedy, according to the Associated Press. But he also excelled in other genres.

Roberts originated roles in such diverse Broadway musicals as “How Now, Dow Jones” (1967); “Sugar” (1972), an adaptation of the movie “Some Like It Hot,” and “Victor/Victoria” (1995), in which he co-starred with Julie Andrews when she returned to Broadway in the stage version of her popular film. We were fortunate enough to see him on Broadway in "Play It Again, Sam" as well as "Don't Drink The Water" and Victor/Victoria" among other shows. He also was in the campy, roller-disco “Xanadu” in 2007 and “The Royal Family” in 2009.

“I’ve never been particularly lucky at card games. I’ve never hit a jackpot. But I have been extremely lucky in life,” he wrote in his memoir, “Do You Know Me?” “Unlike many of my pals, who didn’t know what they wanted to become when they grew up, I knew I wanted to be an actor before I got to high school,” he added.

Roberts was nominated twice for a Tony Award — for “How Now, Dow Jones” and “Play It Again, Sam,” when he was billed as Anthony Roberts. Considering all the shows he appeared in and his versatile talent, it's amazing he wasn't nominated more, and never won.

One of Roberts’ biggest Broadway successes was Charles Busch’s hit comedy “The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife” (2000), in which he played the title character’s husband. One of the hardest working stage and screen actors, Roberts was also was a replacement in some of Broadway's longest-running hits including “Barefoot in the Park,” “Promises, “Promises,” “They’re Playing Our Song,” “Jerome Robbins’ Broadway,” “The Sisters Rosensweig” and the 1998 Roundabout Theatre Company revival of “Cabaret.”

Of course, most people remember Roberts from so many Woody Allen movies where he often played Allen's best friend and sidekick. These included “Annie Hall” (1977), “Stardust Memories” (1980), “A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy” (1982), “Hannah and Her Sisters” (1986) and “Radio Days” (1987).

Whether as a supporting actor or a dashing leading man, Roberts always shined. His tall frame, bright smile, thick curly mane and warm eyes gave him star quality. How else could he replace someone like Robert Redford in the hit "Barefoot in the Park"? Still, even into his later years, Roberts continued to gain desirable roles and display his acting chops with a seemingly effortless ease.

He will be greatly missed!

Saturday, February 8, 2025

And Now, Debut Of 'An Anthem For DOGE!'

To Those Who Seek To Destroy Elon Musk




 

Revealed: Big Pharma's BIGGEST Scandal!




 

The Return Of Good Old-Fashioned MANNERS?

Friday, February 7, 2025

Trump Moves In To Stop Arts Rot!



 

Yes, It's All Happening Very Quickly Now!




 

Trump Revokes Biden's Security Clearance!

There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information. Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden’s Security Clearances, and stopping his daily Intelligence Briefings. He set this precedent in 2021, when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on National Security, a courtesy provided to former Presidents. The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from “poor memory” and, even in his “prime,” could not be trusted with sensitive information. I will always protect our National Security — JOE, YOU’RE FIRED. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

Donald Trump Truth Social Post 06:21 PM EST 02/07/25

South Jersey: How Many Did You Frequent?


Only one of them is still operating. And do you remember: Hawaiian Cottage, Cherry Hill Inn, Cinelli's, The Greenbriar, Sans Souci, Henry's, The Farm, Irv Murrow's Hideaway, The Nassau, The Argylie Rooster, Calico Kitchen, The Rickshaw Inn, Chubby's, Shillig's, Silver Lake Inn, Kenney's, Seafood Shanty, or Weber's Hofbrau House?

 

Well, If This Isn't The Damndest Thing!

Thursday, February 6, 2025

It Really Wasn't That Long Ago, Was It?


 

Trump Saves Womens' Sports, Wins Wide Praise!

Yesterday, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order protecting women and girls from the lunacy of being forced to compete against men in sports — a commonsense position supported by almost 80% of Americans.
 
The effects were immediate. The NCAA issued a statement pledging to “take necessary steps to align NCAA policy” with President Trump’s order, while athletes, commentators, activists, and others across the country praised President Trump’s commitment to restoring fairness in competition.
Here’s what they’re saying:
 
Former ESPN host Sage Steele: “Thank you, @POTUS for helping #SaveWomensSports”
 
Former college swimmer Riley Gaines: “We finally have a true CHAMPION for women in the White House.”
 
University of Nevada, Reno, volleyball captain Sia Liilii: “Thank you, President Trump, for sending a powerful message to female athletes through this executive order that we are not alone in standing up for fairness and safety in sports. When my women’s volleyball team chose to forfeit our match against an opposing women’s team that rostered a male athlete, we were gaslit by university officials who tried to intimidate us into silence and told us we weren’t educated enough on the subject. Today, we are reminded that our voices matter in this fight.”
 
Pro golfer Lauren Miller: “Women are standing up. Trump is standing with us.”
 
Former college swimmer Paula Scanlan: “As someone who was directly impacted by a male athlete on my college women’s swim team, I know how important it is to preserve female-only sport and space. Thankfully, the current administration is following through on promises to stop the insanity.”
 
Former volleyball player Payton McNabb: “Still overwhelmed with emotions after such a monumental day yesterday! After years of sharing my story, the battle for women’s sports has finally been won. Promises were made and kept, and I’m beyond grateful and honored to have been part of it. Thank you, @POTUS, for standing with women!”
 
Former college track and field athlete Linnea Saltz: “I am proud to stand behind President Trump’s Executive Order to protect female athletes. This is a long-overdue victory for women, ensuring they receive the respect and opportunities they deserve. I cannot wait to see this protection become a reality.”
 
Former NFL star Shaun Alexander: “I think it’s a good thing … My daughters train so hard… for them to train so hard to get to where they are and then to see people who have genetics, they have younger brothers who can compete with them already and they’re 14, so you know, if you're the same age competing with a boy, that’s just hard, just body structure alone is just hard. So I’m really happy for all the girls.”
 
Independent Women’s Forum: “The war on women’s sports is OVER! Thank you, @POTUS.”
 
Alliance Defending Freedom CEO Kristen Waggoner: ““The executive order ‘Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports’ is important legally but also vital for the long-overdue message it sends to women and girls: your rights matter.”
 
Parents Defending Education founder Nicki Neily: “Today’s Executive Order by President Trump banning biological boys and men from girls’ and women’s sports on National Girls and Women in Sports Day is welcome news for female athletes and parents of girls in competitive sports.”
 
CNN’s Andrew Kaczynski: “CNN's @ForecasterEnten found that **79%** of Americans oppose transgender athletes in female sports yesterday, including 67% of Democrats.”
 
Journalist Salena Zito: “All across Pennsylvania & Great Lakes Midwest parents who spend a lot of their time on the sidelines of soccer fields & track & swim meets were looking for someone to champion their daughters safety; sports associations & school boards repeatedly let them down … Trump delivered.”
 
Commentator Megyn Kelly: “It is a thing of beauty, and it will literally save lives.”
 
Columnist Carrie Sheffield: “This was the restoration of women’s rights.”
 
Commentator Kimberly Strassel: “I think it’s the most amazing image of this presidency so far.”
 
Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich: “Thank you @POTUS for this shout out yesterday at the Executive Order signing. Being in the @WhiteHouse to witness this day will not be forgotten.  Building @Moms4Liberty is an honor of a lifetime!”
 
Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice: “What an incredible day for women and girls in America! It was wonderful to be in the @WhiteHouse with so many members of @Moms4Liberty and their kids! God Bless President @realDonaldTrump!”
 
America First Policy Institute Chair Erika Donalds: “The leader we need.”
 
U.S. Department of Education Deputy General Counsel Candice Jackson: “President Trump demanded an end to the insanity of men in women’s sports. The President affirmed that this Administration will protect female athletes from the danger of competing against and the indignity of sharing private spaces with someone of the opposite sex. This Executive Order is both a demonstration of common sense and a restoration of our country’s promise to give women equal opportunities.”
 
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA): “Men have NO place in women’s sports. President Trump’s Executive Order puts an end to the unfair and dangerous practice of allowing biological men to compete against women. Common sense is back in the White House!”
 
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-AR): “Girls deserve to feel safe in locker rooms and on the court. Thank you President @realDonaldTrump for bringing common sense back to the White House and protecting women across the country!”
 
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird: “We are ready for President Trump to Make Girls’ Sports Great Again!!”
 
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill: “I’d like to thank President Donald Trump for signing an executive order protecting women’s sports. As the President stated: The war on women’s sports is finally over!”

From President Trump On Reagan's Birthday!

Today we celebrate the birthday of Ronald Reagan—a giant of American history, a lion of freedom and liberty, and the 40th President of the United States.

In 1980, Reagan’s common sense political vision propelled him to the Oval Office, ushering in a new era of prosperity and peace at home and abroad.  The Reagan Revolution was underway.  Throughout his eight years as Commander-in-Chief, the economy boomed, confidence soared, Communism collapsed, and faith in our Nation’s promise thrived and flourished like never before—signaling a renaissance of the American conservative movement.
 
As we honor President Reagan’s life and legendary contributions to our Nation, we recognize that we are in the midst of another political revolution.  Last year, the American People loudly rejected the politics of bitterness and betrayal—and launched a new and triumphant era of renewal and reform.  Every day, my Administration is reminding the world once again that America is its own Nation with its own borders, its own culture, its own customs, and its own heritage—and that the American People will never waver in defending their glorious inheritance of Freedom.
 
Today, we honor President Reagan’s legacy—bringing common sense back to Washington and fortifying the causes of prosperity, safety, security, and peace that he cherished so deeply.  As we enter America’s Golden Age, we remember the indelible mark President Reagan left on our Nation, and we commit to carrying the torch of Liberty and Justice for generations to come.
 
Happy birthday, President Reagan!

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Just Try To Stop This: We Dare You!

Debate: Raucous Republican Rumble Rattles Rider



OMG! How to begin to tell you about last Tuesday night's New Jersey Republican primary gubernatorial debate?

The first word that immediately comes to mind is UGLY. It was ugly to watch; it was ugly to listen to; it was almost embarrassing to be in the same room with these people. It was a shambles and it that's not good for the party. Not. Good. At. All!

Who's fault was this? You can start with the moderator, Laura Jones. At the outset Jones elaborated a series of ground rules for the evening and them promptly ignored them. For all intents and purposes, structure was thrown to the wind. And it was a very windy night, both outside and inside the Rider University venue. But, in fairnes, the candidates did not make Jones' job any easier. 

Here's an example of how things went wrong: questions were posed to the candidates as a group, without giving said candidates which order they should answer in. So, they'd all start answering at once and the loudest respondent won the stage. An atmosphere like this (with no discernible rules) is made for a grandstander. And so, radio talker Bill Spadea took advantage of the moment and moved to dominate the evening like a burly broadcasting bully.

We'll give Spadea this much: he's got a wonderful voice; a distinctive voice that makes you want to keep listening. And he knows how to use his voice to command attention. In fact, at one point John Bramnick (who sounded a bit raspy last night) had to remind Spadea that this was not his show and he was not on the radio. But nothing deterred Spadea.

The hostility between Spadea and Jack Ciattarelli was palpable. And the vitriol was unending. Spadea called Jack a loser who's supported by "deep pocket, backroom elites" adding: "this man has been unemployed for nine years, permanently running for governor." Looking to Ciattarelli, Spadea said: "the loudest, most deceitful, most annoying person does not win."

But Jack gave as good as he got. He was determined not to let Spadea get the best of him. He called Spadea a "grifter"  and a "professional liar" adding that he's "an indecent man who will do anything to get your vote." And Jack went after Spadea on his political action "Common Sense Club" alleging that it paid back a hefty fee to Spadea himself. When Spadea, explaining, seemed to boast that the group was profitable, Jack shot back: "Profitable? It's a non-profit!"

Since Ciattarelli is the frontrunner in the race, he proved to be a frequent target. When Jack pointed to his business success and the independence it has given him, declaring that "no one owns me," Bramnick retorted: "You're owned by the people who write your talking points." When Ciattarelli rightly cited the grassroots time he's put in on behalf of the party and its candidates throughout the state, Ed Durr accused Jack of ignoring him when he ran his uphill race against Steve Sweeney in 2021, scoring a dramatic upset that made national news. 

And then Durr (aka "Ed The Trucker") declared himself the only true outsider in the race, branding all the others "part of a cabal" and declaring "The only way to win is by doing something different. I'm different. I represent you."

As for Bramnick, he spent almost the entire evening pointing to the fact that he has repeatedly been elected to the state legislature from a district that is solidly Democrat. "In you want to win, you've got to be able to gain the votes of Democrats and independents. I've shown that I can do that," Bramnick had one of his best moments when, as the other candidates argued over who was the real Trumpster, he asked: "Do you think the people of New Jersey want us to debate who loves Donald Trump the most or who loves New Jersey the most?" Still, Bramnick elicited jeers when he criticized Trump and tried to interject the events of January 6, 2021 into the mix. 

Of all the candidates, Durr is the one who probably most represents Trump's followers and most closely mirrors their views. His working class creds seem real and when he was asked if he would live in Drumthwacket, the governor's mansion in Princeton if elected, he demurred, saying "I like South Jersey." In the midst of all the bellicosity and bluster, it was a refreshing answer. 

In fact, though he's often dismissed by the pols and the pundits, Durr could be a key factor in this race. If he stays in the race, he would most likely take votes away from Spadea, as "Ed the Trucker" and a veteran conservative radio talker would seem to appeal to the same constituency. If he drops out, his endorsement of one of the other candidates could be the deciding factor. 

Spadea played his ace card in his closing remarks saying that, if elected, he would only serve one term. But how much could a governor really accomplish in just one term -- especially a novice governor with no experience in elected office and without control of the state legislature? 

Bottom line: this wasn't a debate. Rather, it was mostly mayhem providing little or no illumination for the voters, most of whom, mercifully, were not watching. Let's hope for something better as we move forward.

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

NJ GOP Gubernatorial Debate: What To Look For


It's almost time! 

Our friend Matt Rooney of Save Jersey will be one of the moderators of tonight's New Jersey Republican gubernatorial debate which will be held on the Rider University campus. We'll be there tonight and we hope you'll be watching the debate via the New Jersey Globe on facebook, twitter, youtube or other sources shown above.

If you watch the debate, here's what to look for from each of the four candidates in the GOP primary race:

John Bramnick: This state senator is the only current elected officeholder running for the nomination and he will certainly tout his winning ways. And, to his credit, he has been elected and re-elected as a Republican in a reliably Democrat state. But that's been just in his own bailiwick, not statewide. Can Bramnick show that he can be more than a regional success and how in hell can he explain his longstanding opposition to Trumpism, and apparent animosity to Trump and his followers? That's no small hurdle in the current climate as the GOP seems to have moved beyond its former posture of Democrat Light. Where does all that leave the somewhat professorial Bramnick? Stay tuned!

Jack Ciattarelli: We'll admit it -- we like Jack. But, who doesn't? He comes across as your amiable, trusty neighbor. Smiling Jack won't simply lend you his mower, he'll probably mow the lawn for you or shovel the snow off your sidewalk, if need be. He's basically been running for governor ever since he almost won the job with a stunning showing in 2021. But almost doesn't count and now, in the age of Trump 2.0 Jack has to find a way forward embracing even some parts of Trump's agenda that he might have previously eschewed.  While doing this, Jack would do well to mix it up a bit.  Temperamentally, be less like Tom Kean and more like Chris Christie -- instinctive, spontaneous, feisty, even combative now and then. That could be the winning formula! 

Ed Durr: Of all the candidates, Ed Durr is probably the only one who can justifiably claim to be a true and loyal Trumpster. After all, Durr came on the scene via a history-making upset in the same style as Trump. Durr, the giant killer, made national news when he defeated NJ Senate President Steve  Sweeney but the triumph was short lived when Durr failed to raise a sufficient war chest, got snagged by local intra-party squabbles and wound up losing his re-election bid. So now, tonight Ed The Trucker's gotta explain why he's even running for governor in the first place. That may sound like a tall order but then again ask yourself this: why is Steve Sweeney himself now running for governor after suffering that humiliating defeat at the hands of Durr? Touché!  

Bill Spadea: Up until last week Spadea was a conservative radio talk show host who somehow managed to continue his radio gig even after announcing he was running for governor. That takes no small amount of acrobatic talent, yes? With his beard, his graying temples and his intense gaze, Spadea at times reminds us of Ted Cruz -- be careful, this guy can be menacing. At one time or another, on his talk show Spadea has said just about everything and anything and, of course, some of this may (and probably will) come back to haunt him. But he's verbally agile and knows how to turn on the charm when he has to. Still, does he have the command of the issues, the demeanor and political savvy to be governor? Tonight will be the first test of that.

Dems Are Warped But Don't Underestimate 'Em

A very important message from David Limbaugh, via X:

I keep hearing pundits say Democrats are tone deaf and so they aren't hearing the public, which is demanding change. It's deeper than that. They are top-down autocrats hellbent on cramming their warped worldview down our throats and their response to defeat is doubling down, not changing. They're not tone deaf, as in they would change if they better understood the voters. No, they don't care at all what voters think. They will tell us what we must think. They will shame all their candidates into towing the insane gender-crazy, DEI-looney agenda. They are not used to having to convince voters because their media mouthpieces have censored the majority and created an alternative universe they've forced us to live in. Well, 1984 is gone and it's now 2025. It's a new day in America. But if we know one thing about Democrats, they'll never quit and they'll continue to demagogue and bully. We can't let our guards down one second. And we have to remain more united than ever because they'll seize any fissure they can smell. They aren't going to go down easy. Whatever you think, don't think that.