NJ’s Governor’s Race Heats Up

Boy, things are really heating up and New Jersey’s race for Governor has barely begun. What's up with the name calling by the commenter over at Jersey Style? A small taste of what’s to come, we suppose. We’ll stick to the issues for the time being and support Patrick – he didn’t deserve the nasty comment.

State finances and taxes are the major issues facing New Jersey. Social issues are important to some voters, but neither party will upset the status quo – regardless of which wins the governorship.

Now the courts are another matter. It is the judiciary, at the federal and state level that has imposed its will on the people - social policy right on through to the crazy school financing edicts that have led to the current property tax crisis.

Let’s face it, abortion law can not be changed at the State level, so why get all bent out of shape trying to pin someone down on the issue. It may make someone feel good to vote for a candidate that is strong on national defense, is pro life, etc. - but a Governor has no impact on these issues. We think it makes more sense to concentrate on the issues the Governor can impact.

We like Bret Schundler because he really changed government in Jersey City – a city that was only about 6% Republican when he ran for mayor. Just winning the mayor’s race was an amazing accomplishment, and once elected he wasn’t complacent in office. He has a record of innovation, of cutting spending and holding down taxes. They must have liked Schundler in Jersey City, they elected him three times. He has provided information about his reform agenda and his position on property taxes. If we’re looking to do more with less in New Jersey, we believe we’d have a better chance with Schundler as Governor.

As for Doug Forrester – everyone seems to find him dull. We don’t know enough about the man to make a judgment at this point. He ran for the Senate in 2002 and probably would have won had Torricelli not quit the race at the last minute amid a corruption scandal. The New Jersey court stepped in, rewrote the law and Lautenberg was resurrected. Forrester seems suited for the Senate and we were clear on his positions for that job. At this point he has not laid out his positions and ideas for solving New Jersey’s fiscal problems as Governor. However, he clearly recognizes the major issues facing the State and raising taxes is not his answer to the State’s woes.

Honesty, political record, truthful explanation of agenda and ideas for solving the State’s problems, demonstrated ability to lead and effect change, and a willingness to represent and treat all New Jersey citizens equally, are the factors we will use to determine our vote for Governor.

We hope all candidates will be candid and present detailed positions and plans – press releases, vague platitudes, demagoguery and slick campaign ads just won’t cut the mustard. Are you listening Mr. Corzine?