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.
Read More
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.
Read More
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.
Read More
Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Alina Habba, has been replaced by a deputy, Desiree Leigh Grace, following the expiration of her 120-day term, as per an order signed by the Chief Judge.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.
Read More
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.
Read More
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.
Read More
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.
Read More
Large, mysterious drones, some up to six feet in diameter, have been sighted across New Jersey and neighboring states, prompting investigations by the FBI and other agencies. These nighttime flights, which began last month, are concerning officials due to their proximity to military installations and the apparent sophistication evading detection. While authorities stress no immediate public safety threat, the drones’ origin and purpose remain unknown, leading to speculation and calls for increased restrictions on drone operation. The Pentagon, however, has preliminarily ruled out foreign adversaries as the source.
Read More
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the Freedom to Read Act, prohibiting book bans in public schools and libraries and protecting compliant librarians. This action counters a national trend of conservative efforts to restrict access to books, particularly those addressing LGBTQ+ issues and race, with over 10,000 books removed from schools this year alone, according to PEN America. The law, effective in one year, follows similar legislation in Illinois and Minnesota, and allows immediate implementation by state officials as needed. The new law aims to safeguard library integrity and foster critical thinking among students.
Read More
New Jersey’s newly enacted Freedom to Read Act prohibits the removal of books from public libraries and schools based on content or author views, unless developmentally inappropriate for certain age groups. The law, signed by Governor Phil Murphy, protects intellectual freedom and counters a national trend of book bans, which disproportionately target books featuring people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals. The act establishes a review process for addressing concerns about library materials and safeguards library staff from legal repercussions. This legislation ensures equitable access to learning resources and reinforces the right of individuals to choose their reading material.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker