The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has disqualified Alina Habba, former personal lawyer of President Donald Trump, from serving as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor. The court sided with a lower court’s ruling, which found her appointment unlawful due to the administration’s attempts to keep her in the role after her interim appointment expired without Senate confirmation. This decision comes amidst challenges to other Trump administration prosecutor appointments and questions the government’s maneuvers. The ruling was the result of a suit from multiple defendants on whom Habba was attempting to prosecute.
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Following a 2021 commutation from a previous fraud conviction, Eliyahu “Eli” Weinstein has been sentenced to 37 years in federal prison for defrauding investors. The US district judge Michael Shipp also ordered Weinstein to pay over $44 million in restitution. Weinstein’s recent conviction involved a scheme where he and others falsely promised investors access to deals with medical supplies and other goods, resulting in approximately $35 million lost to investors. This marks Weinstein’s third fraud conviction in a New Jersey federal court, adding to a history of fraudulent activities and previous prison sentences.
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Multiple polling locations across several New Jersey counties were targeted with bomb threats on Election Day, leading to police investigations and temporary closures. Officials have stated that these threats are not credible. Some polling locations have reopened, while others have been relocated to ensure voter safety. Law enforcement is working with state, local, and federal partners to maintain a safe and smooth election process.
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The current political climate necessitates that Democrats understand how to confront those in power, especially when dealing with Donald Trump’s abusive tactics. With Trump punishing Democratic states by freezing federal funding, New Jersey should respond by withholding federal taxes to backfill illegally cut funding and using eminent domain on Trump’s Bedminster golf course for affordable housing. These actions are crucial, as Trump has demonstrated a willingness to act outside the law, even endangering citizens and attempting to cancel crucial infrastructure projects. It is imperative that Democrats show resolve, mirroring the strategies of survivors by setting boundaries and fighting back against such abuse of power.
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A lawsuit filed by officials in Paramus, New Jersey, alleges that the American Dream mall is violating a Bergen County law by allowing the sale of nonessential items on Sundays. This law, rooted in religious tradition, restricts Sunday retail sales in the county, with the intention of providing relief from traffic and noise. Paramus officials argue that American Dream, which initially promised to adhere to the law, is now giving itself an unfair advantage over other businesses by opening on Sundays. The mall’s management, however, contends that the blue laws do not apply due to the mall’s location on state-owned property and has called the lawsuit a political stunt.
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In a significant move, DuPont and two other companies have agreed to pay New Jersey up to $2 billion to resolve environmental claims related to PFAS contamination. This landmark settlement, the largest in the state’s history, involves an $875 million payment over 25 years and a remediation fund of up to $1.2 billion. The companies will share the financial burden, and the agreement still requires court approval. The state is holding the companies accountable for the pollution caused by these “forever chemicals” known for their persistence in the environment and potential health hazards.
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Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Alina Habba, has been replaced by a deputy, Desiree Leigh Grace, following the expiration of her 120-day term, as per an order signed by the Chief Judge. This transition has been met with criticism from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who claims Habba’s term isn’t over yet and that the replacement is politically motivated. Habba, who previously represented Donald Trump, faced scrutiny for her actions in office, including her decision to charge Rep. LaMonica McIver. While Trump nominated Habba to the position permanently, her nomination has yet to move forward in the Senate.
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Following a Shakira concert at MetLife Stadium on May 15th, New Jersey health officials are warning attendees of potential measles exposure due to an out-of-state concertgoer who was infectious from 7:30 p.m. on May 15th to 1:00 a.m. on May 16th. Individuals experiencing measles symptoms—cough, high fever, red eyes, runny nose, and a characteristic rash—should contact their healthcare provider before seeking treatment to prevent further spread. The best protection against measles is vaccination, and while no additional cases have been reported in New Jersey, officials urge residents to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date.
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Maciej Wojciak, a 61-year-old Holmdel resident, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses following an incident at a Matawan donut shop. Wojciak allegedly attempted to destroy a pride flag displayed outside the shop, causing damage to the flag’s mounting bracket. Witnesses reported that he subsequently returned, making Nazi gestures and issuing threats. These actions resulted in charges including bias intimidation, terroristic threats, and criminal mischief.
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Joint FBI and DHS investigations into numerous drone sightings near sensitive locations in New Jersey have revealed that many reports were misidentified manned aircraft. Authorities have found no evidence of illegal activity, malicious intent, or foreign involvement. While the drones observed were larger than typical hobbyist models, investigations concluded there is no current national security or public safety threat. Despite this, discussions regarding enhanced US airspace defenses, potentially including drone-specific countermeasures, are ongoing.
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John Q. Hosedrinker