Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 2/18/2026

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Below is Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing:

 

QUOTE OF THE DAY: "Mr. Platkin will now have to answer for his prosecutorial overeach to achieve a purely personal political agenda. It failed. His agenda failed." - Norcross attorney Michael Critchley on former AG Platkin

 

TOP STORY: CD-11 Flashpoint: Mejia v. Hathaway

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Governor Sherrill mourned the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson. LG Caldwell mourned his passing.

 

Governors Sherrill and Hochul reached a deal on Port Authority leadership, according to NJ.com.

 

The AG's Office won't appeal the dismissal of charges against George Norcross, according to NJ Globe. The bombshell case is now over, according to NJ.com.

 

AG Davenport requested a district court to enforce a previous order prohibiting the Trump Administration from terminating the BRIC program.

 

Commuters face a month of misery as service to Manhattan is disrupted, according to NY Times.

 

The 'Coolest Thing Made In New Jersey' contest is back, according to BINJE.

 

Changes to Medicaid and public health are coming to the state, according to NJ Monitor.

 

Quarterly StayNJ payments are going out to seniors now and in May, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

NJ prisons hold fewer people but costs are climbing, according to NJ Monitor.

 

Jersey Shore summer rentals are already booking up fast, according to NJ101.5.

 

Millions in federal funding will help South Jersey projects, according to Burlington County Times.

 

North Jersey Highlands schools face deep cuts, according to NJ Herald.

 

South Jersey residents protested against ICE, according to Burlington County Times.

 

In the digital era, NJ librarians demand more affordable e-books, according to NJ Monitor.

 

Camden County dropped its plans to build a regional jail in Winslow after protests, according to 70and73.com.

 

The Hudson County Sheriff's Office released a ICE policy after a courthouse incident, according to Hudson County View.

 

Passaic County unveiled plans for a $30M bridge replacement design, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

Somerset Airport plans a major upgrade for private flyers, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

MWW appointed Mahen Gunaratna as Executive Vice President of Public Affairs.

 

Steve Adubato examines the challenges and opportunities facing Governor Sherrill (video).

 

ICYMI: Malinowski conceded in CD11 dogfight; Sherrill visited Gateway site

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In CD8, Newark Mayor Baraka will support Rep. Menendez for re-election.

 

In CD11, the special general election is now set: Mejia v. Hathaway.

 

Atlantic County Commissioner Byrnes will seek re-election, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

Read Insider NJ's 2025 Powerful Women of NJ list, compiled by former Assemblywoman Sumter.

 

ICYMI: Dems size up 2028; Mejia says candidates should reject AIPAC; Gee says Mejia win signals 'new era'; Morsy cited ICE fear; Jones wants Dems 'rallying around the winner'; AIPAC big loser; CD11 primary progressive proxy battle between Kim, Baraka; CD11 most fascinating race; insiders sweat impact; Murphy wants to challenge Booker; in CD11, Hathway ready to battle

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Here's what's on the agenda in Trenton tomorrow.

 

The state's new NJDOH Commissioner is lauded as a 'great leader for the time', according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Legislators introduced new anti-ICE bills, according to NJ Globe.

 

Social media legislation aims to boost youth mental health and safety, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Senator Schepisi says affordability and housing are at the top of the GOP to-do list for Governor Sherrill, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Assemblymembers Drulis and Rodriguez introduced the 'KARIM Act'.

 

Rob Matos-Moran joined River Crossing Strategy Group.

 

ICYMI: Lawmakers advanced legislation targeting ICE; SJU interviewed Davenport; Senators engaged; Davenport addressed ICE questions; Bucco, Gopal butted heads; Dehmerl appointed CTO; Sherrill tapped Jarvis for DOL; SJU preparing to interview Davenport, Binder; Singleton ready to dive into affordable housing; Bramnick warns GOP 'only going to get worse' w/ Trump; Sherrill signed six orders; Murphy took action on bills

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In Asbury Park, there will be a public meeting on the future of boardwalk buildings, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

In Atlantic Highlands, Rep. Pallone secured $850k to fix a crumbling road wall, according to TAPinto.

 

In Avalon, the town mourned the passed of a lifeguard legend, according to Cape May Herald.

 

In Bernardsville, there's a deal on affordable housing, according to NJ Hills. A schools bond referendum was touted, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Bridgewater, police debunked a false mall shooting rumour, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Brielle, sewer and water fees were overhauled, according to TAPinto.

 

In Cherry Hill, the town is studying ways to keep seniors living in town, according to 70and73.com.

 

In Clifton, police are stopping people for good deeds and giving gift cards, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Clinton Township, affordable housing updates were made public, according to NJ Hills.

 

In East Windsor, public hearings will be held on two projects, according to TAPinto.

 

In Edison, the council remains unsure of the future of a community center building, according to TAPinto. A community center could revive Amboy Ave, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Franklin, a mixed-use development was approved, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Hackensack, the city and a former cop are suing each other, according to NorthJersey.com. The city will get help with a budget shortfall, according to NorthJersey.com. A contract was proposed for a fire hosue remediation project, according to TAPinto.

 

In High Bridge, the CFO's resignation caused concern, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Lakewood, critics say school takeovers lead to little improvement, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

In Little Falls, residents are in limbo after flood relief funding was suspended, according to TAPinto.

 

In Medford, a subcommittee was proposed to review the housing quota plan, according to Pine Barrens Tribune.

 

In Medford Lakes, a 'Green Shield' program proposal was unveiled, according to Pine Barrens Tribune.

 

In Montclair, lawsuits are challenging the Lackawanna Plaza development, according to Montclair Local. The council proposed a tax deal on the development, according to Montclair Local.

 

In New Brunswick, an executive order seeks to limit cooperation with ICE, according to TAPinto.

 

In Newark, a grant program opened to beautify neighborhoods, according to TAPinto. Four BOE seats are up for grabs, according to Chalkbeat. A $10.5B school referendum could be on the ballot, according to Chalkbeat.

 

In Newton, Sussex County is reviewing the green policy amid constitutional concerns, according to TAPinto.

 

In North Caldwell, religious displays were debated, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Plainfield, the town ended virtual public comment at meetings, according to TAPinto.

 

In Princeton, Democrats will consider the CD12 primary candidates, according to TAPinto.

 

In Raritan Township, truck weight was regulated on PA Ave, according to TAPinto.

 

In Ridgewood, the next round of affordable housing was approved, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

In Somerville, the GOP is seeking local candidates, according to TAPinto.

 

In South Orange, the Rescue Squad seeks new trustees, according to Village Green.

 

In Toms River, town hall is back open after a pipe burst, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

In Trenton, Austin Edwards launched his mayoral bid.

 

In Union, Deputy Mayor Florio won't seek re-election after 30 years, according to TAPinto.

 

In Union City, ICE says it didn't target a church in a raid, according to NJ.com.

 

In Upper, the town is planning field improvements, according to Cape May Herald.

 

In Washington, the OEM was reorganized, according to Pine Barrens Tribune.

 

In Watchung, six BOE members were censured, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Woodland Park, a financial advisor was hired, according to TAPinto.

 

AROUND THE WEB:

 

Feds pay another $77 million of what they owe to Gateway Tunnel project

Larry Higgs, NJ.com

 

  • Federal officials made a second $77 million payment of the $205 million they froze in October and were ordered by a judge to release earlier this month. Gateway Development Commission officials confirmed the second payment Tuesday, a day after President Donald Trump criticized Gateway in a Truth Social post.

 

NJ Reentry Closes Ocean County Location

Andrew Rice, Jersey Shore Online

 

  • The NJ Reentry Corporation, a non-profit agency meant to assist those returning from addiction treatment, incarceration, or the theater of combat, has closed down its Toms River branch and will be consolidating its Ocean County operations into the Monmouth County branch, which is located in Neptune. This move leaves the corporation without a base of operations in all of Ocean County.

 

New Environmental Rules To Impact Jersey Shore Business

Stephanie A. Faughnan, Jersey Shore Online

 

  • The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce gathered local business leaders, elected officials and law enforcement representatives for its 118th State of the Chamber address at The Mainland Kitchen & Pub. Participants heard perspectives on everything from state regulation and workforce training to public safety and environmental rules reshaping coastal development.

 

Fire District Elections: $15M in Taxes at Stake

Vince Conti, Cape May County Herald

 

  • Cape May County’s four townships on Feb. 21 will hold fire district elections in which 14 districts will ask voter approval for more than $9 million in tax levy support for their budgets.

 

Staying on the fast track: Gunaratna on why MWW was right fit after Murphy administration

Tom Bergeron, BINJE

 

  • There might be a budget issue in the morning, followed by a school‑funding controversy, a meet‑and‑greet at a ribbon‑cutting, a lawsuit — and literally a forest fire, flood or snowstorm. All in one day.

 

The resurgence of the n-word in modern American culture

LA Parker, The Trentonian

 

  • The heated racial slur, aimed at a rival Lawrence supporter, cut through the cold air a second time before verbal jousts ended and the combatants slipped into cars and drove away.

 

New Environmental Rules To Impact Jersey Shore Business

Stephanie A. Faughnan, Jersey Shore Online

 

  • The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce gathered local business leaders, elected officials and law enforcement representatives for its 118th State of the Chamber address at The Mainland Kitchen & Pub. Participants heard perspectives on everything from state regulation and workforce training to public safety and environmental rules reshaping coastal development.

 

NJ orders utilities to explain solar delays amid data center boom

David M. Zimmer, NorthJersey.com

 

  • New Jersey’s four major utilities have until March 5 to explain to regulators why rooftop solar, community solar and battery storage projects are taking longer than expected to connect to the power grid, even as electricity demand rises.

 

Former Spotswood Mayor and Longtime Public Servant Joseph Spicuzzo Laid to Rest

Dawn Miller, TAPinto Edison

 

  • Funeral services were held on Monday, February 16 for longtime borough resident and former mayor Joseph Spicuzzo. Spicuzzo passed away on February 12. He was 80 years old. Funeral services were held at Immaculate Conception Church following a brief service at the Lester Memorial Home in Jamesburg.

 

Clergy abuse survivors in South Jersey to receive $180 million in proposed settlement

Ted Sherman, NJ.com

 

  • The Diocese of Camden announced a proposed $180 million settlement on Tuesday to resolve claims by hundreds of childhood victims who suffered sexual abuse over the years at the hands of the clergy.

 

Ex-Morris County freeholder gets probation in NJ bribery sting

William Westhoven, Morristown Daily Record

 

  • Former Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro was sentenced to three years of probation plus fines and forfeitures totaling over $30,000 after pleading guilty to taking a bribe in 2018 while in office.

 

Students At Central Regional Protest Amid Teacher Allegations

Chris Lundy, Jersey Shore Online

 

  • About two dozen students protested outside Central Regional High School this morning, calling for the removal of a teacher. This teacher has been accused by the Jersey Coast Emergency News Facebook page of sexual misconduct with students, however no charges have been filed.

 

Filmology Labs plans $250M studio in Paterson

Matthew Fazelpoor, NJBIZ

 

  • A $250 million next-generation film and digital studio campus is set to transform a historic mill in the Silk City into a hub for vertical storytelling and creator-driven content. Media entrepreneur Alan Mruvka, co-founder of E! Entertainment Television, recently announced the launch of Filmology Labs: Content Creation Studios in Paterson.

 

NJ Transit begins ‘cutover’ schedule as work continues on Portal Bridge

John Harrington, roi-nj.com

 

  • NJ Transit rail service began Portal Bridge transfer, or “cutover” schedules with Midtown Direct service diverted to Hoboken. Cross honoring is in effect for Midtown Direct customers in Hoboken with PATH, ferry to midtown and NJ Transit bus.

 

Guest Op-Ed: Jewish safety cannot wait for New Jersey politics

David-Seth Kirshner, For The Trentonian

 

  • New Jersey came so close to doing the right thing. Following years of hearings, testimony, and momentum, the state legislature was on the verge of adopting A3558, a bipartisan bill that would recognize the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism. The need was clear, and nearly 75 percent of the Assembly were cosponsors. Then, at the last moment, the vote was cancelled because lawmakers were more concerned with political considerations than Jewish safety.

 

Monmouth's top cop 'beaming' over officer daughter's Idol success

Kathleen Hopkins, Asbury Park Press

 

  • While his staff went to court for months insisting that witnesses tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago was holding back a huge secret.

 

Trump's ultimate blue-collar betrayal? Gateway | Opinion

Charles Stile, NorthJersey.com

 

  • The leaders of the Laborers' International Union of North America endorsed Democrats Joe Biden and then Kamala Harris for president. Still, some rank-and-file workers cast their votes for Donald Trump and his “Make America Great Again” agenda. But some of those hard hat workers are struggling with buyer’s remorse.

 

Jesse Jackson, civil rights activist and presidential candidate, dies at 84

David Cohen, Politico

 

  • The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil rights activist known for his rousing oratory who became the first African American candidate to have a plausible path to winning the presidency, has died. He was 84.

 

Former TV reporter joins race to challenge Cory Booker for Senate in N.J.

Brent Johnson, NJ.com

 

  • Alex Zdan, a former TV reporter turned Republican politician, announced Monday he is running to challenge Sen. Cory Booker in New Jersey’s top-of-the-ballot U.S. Senate race this fall.

 

What I learned watching N.J.’s justice system fail someone I love

Melissa Denino

 

  • For a long time, I thought of the reentry population as just that — people reentering society after incarceration. I didn’t think about this group of people often, and I especially didn’t know anything about their healthcare.

 

NJ Transit’s automatic fare hikes are pricing out the families who need it most | Opinion

Talia Crawford

 

  • Less than six months from now, NJ Transit riders will face another hit to their wallets as the next automatic 3% fare increase — part of a permanent annual policy — draws closer.

 

N.J. prison crisis needs officers who will stay — and lawmakers who will act. | Opinion

Terry Schuster

 

  • Last week, I saw the graduating class of new correctional police officers who will work in our state prisons — the largest class in nearly a decade.

 

Kid Rock, Joe Rogan, Elon Musk: The R-word isn’t edgy — it’s cowardly. N.J. won’t play along.

Stephen Cha and Kaylee McGuire

 

  • Language is never neutral. The words we choose reflect our values, shape public attitudes and signal who belongs — and who does not.

 

Long awaited report on NJ group home medication death cites 'neglect'

Jean Rimbach, Ashley Balcerzak, NorthJersey.com

 

  • There was neglect by the company that operates the Sussex County group home where 21-year-old Katie Moronski lived for just two days before succumbing to a lethal mix of prescription medication, a state investigation has found, but it stopped short of saying neglect was the cause of the autistic woman’s death.

 

Worst state capitals in the nation? See where Trenton falls

Maddie McGay, NorthJersey.com

 

  • If you're thinking about making the move to any of the nation's 50 state capitals, you might want to take Trenton off of your list. That's according to WalletHub, which recently named the New Jersey city as the third-worst U.S. capital to live in for 2026.

 

Why did Pou tout funding for North Jersey she also voted against?

Joe Malinconico, Paterson Press

 

  • Rep. Nellie Pou announced on Feb. 6 that she was proud to win $14.4 million for community projects for 15 towns within her North Jersey congressional district, including $3.2 million for a homeless hub in Paterson.

 

This North Jersey attorney has been a recognizable sight for 50 years

Kaitlyn Kanzler, NorthJersey.com

 

  • Brian Neary is easily recognizable in North Jersey courtrooms due to his bespectacled face, signature bow ties and ferocious defense of his clients. Neary recently celebrated his 50th anniversary of becoming a lawyer. So what has kept him in the courtroom for half a century?

 

Can ICE officers wear masks in NJ? What a new bill would do

Katie Sobko, NorthJersey.com

 

  • Legislation that would prohibit law enforcement from wearing masks in the Garden State will be up for committee consideration in the state Senate this week amid criticism by Gov. Mikie Sherrill and others that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have worn masks while conducting raids.

 

The O’Toole Chronicles: Bloodlines

Kevin O'Toole, NJ Globe

 

  • I recently had a long overdue dinner with several friends that I grew up and went to college with. The group comprised of a very mixed background, ethnically and culturally, but all came from mediocre economic standing. By in large, the dining companions had all the markings of modern-day success stories, and many had much to be proud of. Several in the group had to break away from less than ideal childhood upbringings and redefined themselves to create successful lives.

 

Florham Park resident casts first vote

NJ Hills

 

  • Madelyn Shanley, an 18-year-old senior at the Morris County Vocational Technical School, cast her ballot for the very first time as part of the Democratic special primary election for the 11th Congressional district seat on Thursday, Feb. 5.

 

Readington Looking to Preserve Revolutionary Era Mill

Barbra Bateman Doyle, TAPinto.net

 

  • Readington Township is teed up to get behind a potential $1.12 million project to preserve the last revolutionary era mill in the state of New Jersey – and it could end up costing local taxpayers nothing.

 

Inside NJ's bold plan to treat hunger like a prescription

Jen Ursillo, NJ1015

 

  • In an effort to combat food insecurity in New Jersey, RWJBarnabas Health has opened its fifth “Food Farmacy.” It was launched in partnership with Mercer Street Friends, a leading organization that addresses hunger and poverty in Mercer County, and Fairgrown Farm, a local farm and distributor in Pennington.

 

Greater Morristown rail commuters face a month of Hoboken detours amid Portal Bridge cutover

Kevin Coughlin, Morristown Green

 

  • If you’re a Greater Morristown rail commuter with a work-from-home option, you might want to exercise that option for the next four weeks. That’s the best advice from NJ Transit to Midtown Direct Morris & Essex Line passengers, as a month-long bridge replacement project forces weekday trains that normally serve New York Penn Station to terminate in Hoboken instead.

 

Autism awareness fundraiser draws record turnout in Sea Isle City

Donald Wittkowski, Downbeach

 

  • They each wore matching bright blue, long-sleeved shirts with the words “Rocky’s Rock Stars” emblazoned on the front. Altogether, the group of nine friends and relatives gathered on the Sea Isle City Promenade on Saturday to show their support for Rocky Buchanan, an 8-year-old boy who has autism.

 

RCBC Board Terminates College President for Allegedly ‘Good Cause’ and Files Counterclaim Against Him, Now-Former Assistant, Law Firms

Douglas D. Melegari, Pine Barrens Tribune

 

  • Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC)’s Board of Trustees claims in a formal resolution that it has determined “good cause” exists to officially terminate Dr. Michael Cioce as college president, an action the public body undertook during a special Jan. 15 board session.

 

Detained immigrants issue “Our Cry,” a letter from inside Newark ICE facility pleading for due process

Steve Janoski, Jersey Vindicator

 

  • More than two dozen men held at a controversial immigration detention center in Newark recently issued a letter apologizing for how they came into the country, but also saying they posed no threat to others before the feds seized them as part of the Trump administration’s sweeping immigration raids.

 

This winter is no snow joke for New Jersey’s wildlife

Jeff Tittel

 

  • This winter may be the coldest New Jersey has experienced since 1961, but it is not an unavoidable act of nature. It is the result of climate chaos colliding with decades of overdevelopment and government failure to protect habitat and land. Extreme cold, deep snow, ice, and prolonged freezes are hitting wildlife already weakened by record heat, drought, habitat loss, and relentless sprawl.

Previous comments for: Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 1/30/2026

  1. Stephen Brickman LTC USA (retired) says:

    as the upcoming audit of the Department of Education approaches it would wise to consider the amount of money going into education is not producing the results one would hope for. US is on the bottom of the list for the number of our kids falling below in their education levels. I think the states would beach be more efficient in that area as the parents receive the power to demand what the kids are taught and have the ability to vote on who serves as Principal, and can fire teachers that are judged ineffective, as the rule of tenure is eliminated as proposed by the President. If the Department of Education is too large and too frivolous with OUR money is should be gone, and I"m sure Mrs. McMahon would sure of that, after the DOGE audit.

  2. Stephen Brickman LTC (USA retired) says:

    Bravo to New Secretary of Homeland Security Norm for deputizing the national guard to give them the power to arrest illegals attempting to enter our country illegally. That same idea might work in sanctuary states by deputization of police to be able to bypass governors another elected officials, such as mayors and city and county commissioners. Deputization is a weapon not often used but in this instance it would work to accomplish the mission of Homeland Security. On another note the overt anger shown towards Kash Patel by the Democratic senators is telling. His confirmation will mean the entire mission of the Democratic Party will be deep sixed by the cleansing of the FBI’s weaponization. It means our country will be back to Constitutional Republic. Of course if the mainstream media media wants its audience back it might want to go along with Constitutionality also.

  3. Maryann says:

    I have relatives that live in Texas, they have to live in fear? I don't think so.I don't hear any Democrats having any spine to challenge Biden.Who did he let skate? If they were so innocent he wouldn't have to pardon them would he

  4. Stephen Brickman LTC USA (retired) says:

    The selling off the wall piecemeal by Biden's administration was not addressed, but it has to be looked at as a huge black eye for Biden. To counter this it seems prudent to advise those companies that bought in to the "Great American Fraud" that returning their purchase is a most patriotic act, even if there is a monetary reward of maybe 25 cents on the dollar, as well as not being seen to be in collusion with the deep state.in this fraudulent act. Remembering that American taxpayers already paid millions for the wall and would very much appreciate getting it back to increase Homeland Security, which was its purpose in the first place.

  5. Stephen Brickman says:

    Once Trump pardons the Jan 6 participants they should immediately begin Class Action suit against Nancy Pelosi who was instrumental in conducting a huge Political Kangaroo Court unfairly sending hundreds of of participants to jail. They should seek 200 million dollars for redress as well as compensation for Ashley Babbit’s shooting for being unarmed and unthreatening and totally not deserving of a death sentence. And it should cover the medical needs of those jailed who were denied adequate medical care. This was a total abuse of politely power and a Class Action suit is needed to clear the air.

  6. Vincent says:

    (The state’s voting system is secure, according to NJ Spotlight.) This was without doubt one of the most farcical articles perhaps ever written. To give you an idea just how corrupt and lawless the voting system is, in 2021 Governor Murphy deviously ousted the Bergen County Superintendent of Elections with over 30+ years of experience (coerced and strongarmed into early retirement) in order to then deliberately and deviously insert Loretta Weinberg's Chief of Staff who, had absolutely NO previous election experience whatsoever. This was all masterfully formulated and then executed just several weeks prior to the Gubernatorial primary. But of course there was nothing nefarious regarding such an abrupt change. Although Bergen County is not the largest County in New Jersey it is however home to the most registered voters of which the vast majority are also Democrats. Keep in mind The Superintendent of Elections Office is also in charge of voter "registrations" - polls books, voting machines and of course - investigating any and all reports of voter fraud. Murphy's intentions had been to leave the position vacant until "after" the Gubernatorial Election in November but the media exposed his chicanery and he was forced to fill and announce his personal "appointment" immediately and how all of this came to light. The former Superintendent of Elections was also a Republican and certainly would've never voluntarily retired "prematurely" but just prior to a major election. Her integrity was legendary throughout the entire County. But of course there was nothing to Murphy's sudden lead change "in the middle of the night" in Bergen County after the polls had already closed. Murphy was and still remains loathed and despised by all because of his despotic actions and stance on the Covid lockdowns. He knew there was no other way he could ever beat Ciattarelli and never did. But certainly not legally nor ever legitimately. But keep believing "the voting system in NJ" is actually secure.

  7. Stephen Brickman RPh says:

    Concerns about Jan 6 violence The simple solution to allay the concerns of the Jan.6 violence happening again is to make sure the election is run in an honest and above board manner, which must include voter I.D. via a totally transparent system. Otherwise I’m betting all bets are off.

  8. Stephen Brickman LTC USA (retired) says:

    Assemblyman Schaer's Bill to define antisemitism for New Jersey residents and to be able to react to it is great. But what about our kids going off to college, especially the Jewish kids. They should have a means to know what schools have active anti-Jewish protests, and/or pro-Palestinian demonstration allowed on and off campus. They should be able to feel safe wherever they go, and not have their studies interrupted by what I consider this unlawful activity. Are there websites with this kind of information posted?

  9. Joe says:

    Great article, thanks for keeping us informed!

  10. Stephen Brickman LTC USA (retired) says:

    NOTE TO SENIORS I was 85 when I got my Carry permit. If you want to protect yourself and your family you are never too old to carry. As log as you can pass the test at the range, which is pretty simple, and you have a handgun you can handle (which is why I purchased a Walther CCP M2 PLUS which is easy to rack) and you have no police record or mental health problems, you can qualify. Of course you need to get a Federal weapons ID card, if you don't already have one. We are targets because we are older and look easy. Well surprise , surprise. The more folks that are carrying the less crime because the bad guys wont know if you are armed and might not try something. By the way it doesn't matter- male or female!!

  11. Tom says:

    Stop complaining about taxes ,our schools , our crime, ,after all folks we keep voting in the same Democrat party politicians each time . For instance who would think that every Democrat who represents us in congress would vote for men playing in woman sports ,but they did , ask yourself are you the kind of a person who would kill ( sorry to use that word kill but hard not to since the law is that is a human being and if the mother is murdered it’s a double homicide ) a baby up to the moment of birth sorry to tell you that is the law in New Jersey. So stop complaining your part of the problem.

  12. Kyran Connor says:

    Can't seem to access the Steinberg column on Sam Alito, Sr. on your website. Suggestions?

  13. Stephen BrickmanRPh says:

    Changing the regulations to allow Optometrists to perform surgery is foolhardy and dangerous. Their training is doing vision tests and prescribing the correct glasses to improve vision. Only an MD in ophthalmology should be the one to do eye surgery. That’s like asking the fellow filling your gas tank to fix a ball joint suspension. This is not the answer to a shortage of ophthalmologists

  14. Stephen Brickman says:

    Reclassifying marihuana from CI to any other category will involve Pharmacy because by law only a Pharmacist with a DEA license can purchase or sell any drug with a CII to CV Classification. (CI is exempt because it’s heroine or any other drug with no medical purpose). This is a National problem because it is all under the DEA. And since marihuana is a hallucinogen among other things it requires control. The whole weed issue has put the cart before the horse and really requires reining in to have it conform to the legal requirements. (Sorry Mr. Weedman). And recreational use will get the biggest hit because it will require a prescription for medicinal use, but that cuts out the recreational aspect. Maybe in the future Pharmacists may be able to prescribe it but not yet. And how many physicians and Nurse Practitioners will want to be involved in the weed industry, I wonder? Lots of questions and few answers so far.

  15. Lisa Bonanno says:

    Could you please fix your “bay blood spots “ typo. It sounds like a horror movie. Although “baby blood spots” isn’t much better. Maybe there’s a clearer and less distressing turn of phrase for all of our sensitive readers, lol. Please and thank you.

  16. Stephen Brickman LTC USA (retired) says:

    Studies show that recreational cannabis is responsible a 10% increase in motor vehicle accident deaths. These studies show that cannabis impairs driving ability and driving while high is common among regular users. Since cannabis is still an illegal drug, insurance companies are within their rights to deny coverage in for an accident ruled a DUI due to cannabis. However a state that approved its recreational use should be held accountable for any and all the consequences of that DUI. States are more interested in the money they make but they should accept the responsibility for having approved the use of recreational cannabis.

  17. Stephen Brickman says:

    With the mainstream media touting the current president and suddenly discovers he’s been lying to us all about how supportive he is of Israel when it is reported he is receiving BIG donations from Soros and Rockefellers , both proven anti-American donors, to become pro Palestinian and Pro Hamas and Anti Israel by holding up ammunition shipments to Israel. And solidly answering the question of why he never goes directly against Iran. Is the MSM party to this also. How can the general public now know who and what to trust. They warn us how terrible a trump administration will be as if they have totally forgotten how good we had it under Trump. All I can say is put on your big boy pants and tell us how it really is.

  18. Gregg Mele says:

    The problem with the Line is that there is no vetting process. Whoever pays the most and/or is specifically unqualified and therefore relegated to the status of puppet is who the county bosses support and threaten the committee members to support. My opponent said on-air that he will do whatever they tell him. What kind of leadership is that. I have 8-10 organizations endorsing me to his zero. I have served many statewide for almost 4 years while he has never helped anyone but himself. No-brainer who is qualified, and they know it. That's why they are getting nasty and vile while I continue to take the high road.

  19. Stephen Brickman RPh says:

    Iowa gets it right. What better school security is there than trained, armed teachers with concealed carry permits. You wonder what parents and local government officials when they oppose this idea. Apparently they would rather wait for some demented individual, either a student or maybe an ex student pulls out a handgun of his backpack , or a long gun out of a duffel and starts firing do they can call it in and wait for help to show up. This move would save many lives and I would heartily endorse this idea nationwide. Of course I’m just an average gun owner who believes that our kids are our most valuable asset and need real protection.

  20. Steve Caruso says:

    The liability limits for taxi cabs are extreme starting July 1. It was a plan in place through the insurance banking committee and it was abruptly changed with an amendment. The guys are barely making a living today and you’ve increased their insurance. What’s fair is fair and this is not it was an incremental increase, which was fair, and was removed by the governor please refer back to the original plan

  21. Stephen Brickman RPh says:

    Note to Concealed Carry permit holders: make sure you subscribe to one of the insurance companies that specialize in CCP, ie: US LAW SHIELD. If you ever have to fire your weapon , that has to be the first phone call you make. The second is 911, the third is your family. With so many new permit holders there will probably be an increase in discharges until word gets out that it’s actually unsafe for criminals to be in New Jersey and crime will take a nosedive. Now unless you have a conviction in your background you can get that CCP and really defend yourself and your family. And more women are applying which is great for family defense. The stats that record gun violence will have to be re-organized into guns used for crime and guns used to prevent crime. A lot of get-always here because sometimes just brandishing a firearm is enough to stop a crime. But it should be reported anyway..

  22. Stephen Brickman LTC USA (retired) says:

    How's his for an idea? Uncover the identities of the un-elected advisors to Pres. Biden, and publish their names. That way there is actually someone to blame when we lose valuable lives from unanswered attacks by terrorist organizations. We know Biden isn't making these decisions on his own. My guess is that these advisors will quit the team rather than take the heat for poor decisions, revealing a big weakness in this administration. It might lead to improvements to the decision-making process.

  23. Stephen Brickman RPh says:

    The governor signed off on having Narcan available in all schools grades 9 through 12. But what about the idea of having Narcan available in ALL SCHOOLS in New Jersey?

  24. Stephen Brickman says:

    Voting should be based on understanding what’s actually happening and knowing who would make life safer and more livable. The only way to do that is to get both sides of the information remembering there are always two sides to a story. Mainstream media in my area includes the Star Ledger and the Easton Express. If you look at the bylines of the opinions you will find writers from the Washington Post and Bloomberg, both notoriously on the left. Even the political cartoons are a dead giveaway. CNN and CNBC are also left leaning. So what are the options for getting opinions and news from the right? Fortunately cable news has Fox, which is near center, and Newsmax, and NewsNation which are full right. Watching these even just occasionally will show a much broader picture and give the reader more information with which to make an informed voting decision. And remember you DONT have to vote party if you feel there’s a wiser choice.

  25. Stephen Brickman says:

    I’m a conservative and I do believe life begins at conception but the problem is that each mother is responsible for that life and it is in the realm of her mental and physical health that she will either bring it to term or abort it. This should not be a political decision and should not be be dictated by thousand of strangers. The Supreme Court turned it over to the states but it still remains personal for the mother and her family. I don’t think it should be an “agenda item” for any political party. A state medical society may want to impose a time frame within which an abortion can occur but even that may be subject to the mother’s doctor’s discretion. I say just quit discussing it and leave it up to the mother a father.

  26. Adam says:

    Teaneck property taxes pays for the school budget. Teaneck High School students walk out. Is a Hamas military shuffle march property tax bill included?

  27. Stephen Brickman LTC U.S.A. (Retired) says:

    The military serving in the Middle East represents every state in the Union. Those are our sons and daughters, Moms and Dads and yet we are very little to protect them, or REALLY retaliate when they’re attacked. Governor Murphy is the Chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, and past chair of the National Governors Association and yet you never hear him mention about any requests either organization makes to Biden to be more aggressive about protecting our kids in harms way. It’s as though it doesn’t seem to matter to them. No wonder we look so weak to the rest of the world.

  28. Stephen Brickman says:

    How about those unintended consequences. New Jersey mandating that all cars being sold by 2035 be electric is telling us what we can or cannot buy with our own money. There will always be gasoline powered vehicles because of the power produced by internal combustion compared to the power produced by batteries; which is to say the more power the bigger the battery to the point of rediculousness. My thought is that if the state wants fewer gas powered vehicles on the road it should create a mass transit electric powered system that would emphasize convenience for commuters and everyday shoppers. Of course that would mean vehicles weighing tons more because of the size of batteries and that creates a whole other question of where to dispose of them (also for elelectric car batteries), since they are composed of highly toxic materials that can’t be burnt or buried. These are unintended consequences no- one is willing to grapple with until its too late. I think by 2035 th he electric car fantasy will go the same way the offshore wind farm has gone. Stephen Brickman 206 Stonehenge Dr Phillipsburg,NJ 08865 Stephen.Brickman@gmail.com Sent from my iPhone

  29. Moe says:

    NJ is one of the most corrupt and racist places to live. There’s “0” accountability for the criminal acts, corruption, and unfair treatment of the people of this state. It starts with our governor who cares less for truth and honesty. Continue to ruin the lives of the citizens of this state.

  30. Stephen Brickman says:

    Gun owners don't have to talk about guns because they know that they have to come out and vote to protect their constitutional right to bear arms. The Supreme court decision has affirmed that right and somehow our "leaders" haven't learned how to read.

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  32. ilan says:

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  33. Stephen Brickman says:

    lETS NOT FORGET that during the pandemic Donald Trump sent the MERCY, a fully equipped, COVID prepared Hospital ship to save lives of victims and healthcare workers . But Murphy in his wisdom would rather send Patients back to nursing homes that were ill-equipped to treat these patients so they could die , rather than utilize a life-saving gift and be like NY governor Cuomo, another anti-Trump tool.

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  36. Tree Service says:

    Nice article! thanks for sharing the post!

  37. Moe says:

    Murphy doesn’t want to be the president, he wants to be a state trooper.

  38. NJMCDirect says:

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  40. JG B says:

    Murphy running for President is LAUGHABLE. Nased on what??

  41. Charlie Abisror says:

    lmao imagine supporting lockdowns after the largest mass death event in american history and calling that a feeling driven conclusion? maga chuds never fail to disappoint

  42. Mary Ann McKinney says:

    So....about those 56 machines in Bergen... <<>>

  43. John Fiorentino says:

    He;s "vacationing" at his villa in Italy, while Covid surges and the state is paralyzed by "remote work"............translation: NO WORK

  44. Zyra Alissa says:

    What I — and most of the women I know who are passionate about cosmetics —like about make up isn't that the right gloss can make your lips poutier or that false lashes can make your eyes more doe-like. Rather, it's how women can communicate messages and express ourselves through makeup. Certainly it's not our single factor of communication, but it's one of many forms of expression that allow us to showcase our individual styles.

  45. Amber Si says:

    OK

  46. yanre says:

    keeping up with the news

  47. Sha H says:

    That is what happens in practicality when they are "suspending their disbelief" (HR Clinton) in real numbers and going on predictive models to make decisions. And then after doing that, they vote with "feelings."

  48. Sha H says:

    Murphy celebrates "a full week of declining numbers" then says "status quo of lockdown will remain until new cases and fatalities decrease." So, which of Murphy's statements is accurate? He said 2 opposite things in a single paragraph of speaking.

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