Authorities have identified 31-year-old Cole Allen as the suspect who breached security at the Washington Hilton, wounding a Secret Service agent before being tackled. The FBI has moved to secure the suspect’s home in Torrance, California.

Authorities said the suspect carried multiple weapons into the hotel, underscoring the severity of the breach and leaving agents only seconds to respond and secure critical access points.

That urgency became clear just after 8:30 p.m., when gunfire erupted on the hotel’s terrace level, one floor below the hotel lobby and one floor above the International Ballroom, where guests were already seated for the evening program.

Within seconds, President Donald Trump was rushed from the stage as attendees took cover and security agents moved members of his Cabinet out of the room. By 9:45 p.m., he had left the hotel, arriving back at the White House just before 10 p.m., where he later briefed the press.

President Trump has called for a permanent return to White House-based events,

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The New Jersey Republican State Committee is the official entity of the Republican National Committee and represents more than 1.6 million Republicans registered in New Jersey. For more information, visit NJGOP.org.

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The event also marked the official launch of the Bipartisan Legislative Disability Advocacy Coalition, a new unified initiative. Earlier this year, the Assemblymen and their staff, in partnership with a small group of advocate family members, developed the concept for this collaborative effort to unite families, advocates, nonprofits, and lawmakers from both parties. The Coalition seeks to build broad bipartisan support among legislators and policymakers to advance reforms that enhance care, safety, and quality of life for some of New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents.

Central to the roundtable were in-depth discussions on the following legislation:

• A4008: the Justice for Vulnerable Residents Act: Establishes the Justice Center for the Protection of Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities. This independent center would investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation in residential settings, providing stronger oversight and accountability.

• A4009: the Fair Funding for Vulnerable Residents Act: Requires certain providers of services to adults or children with intellectual or developmental disabilities to meet a direct care ratio, mandating that at least 70% of state and federal revenue be spent on frontline caregiving to improve staffing levels and care quality.

• A2705: Requires certain group homes to install electronic monitoring devices in common areas upon request and with uniform resident consent. Sponsored by Assemblymen DePhillips, Sauickie, and Freiman, and co-sponsored by Clifton, the bill promotes transparency, deters abuse, and respects privacy.

• Additional co-sponsored bills supporting the broader initiative include A4479 (school bus emergencies for students with disabilities), A2259 (allowing family members to stay with special needs patients in the hospital), and A2231 (mortality/abuse prevention advisory board).

“Today’s event was incredibly meaningful,” said Assemblyman Alex Sauickie.

“Seeing self-advocates, families, providers, and professionals come together from every corner of the state to launch the Bipartisan Legislative Disability Advocacy Coalition demonstrates the urgency and unity behind these reforms. For too long, families have shared heartbreaking stories. These bills, developed in partnership with advocates and former Ombudsman Paul Aronsohn, represent real, practical steps to protect our loved ones and restore trust in the system,” Sauickie said.

Assemblyman Rob Clifton added, “[the] strong turnout today—from Camden to Hunterdon—shows that New Jersey must prioritize the safety, dignity, and quality of life for individuals with special needs. Through the Coalition, we are building broad bipartisan support to advance these bills. We have made promising progress, but we need continued advocacy from families, guardians, nonprofits, and legislators to turn these vital reforms into law.”

The Coalition encourages everyone to get involved:

• Join the effort: Families, guardians, advocates, nonprofits, and legislators are all welcome.

• Speak out: Contact leaders in the New Jersey Senate and Assembly, committee chairs, and your legislators to request support and a vote on these bills.

• Contact the Governor: Urge her support for these critical reforms.

• Share widely: Spread the word through your networks, the press, and social media to build momentum.

Assemblymen Sauickie and Clifton, along with their staff, expressed deep gratitude to Manalapan Township for providing the Community Center for the event and to all participants for their passion and commitment. The Coalition represents a historic, collaborative push to deliver better outcomes for individuals with disabilities and their families across New Jersey.

At the conclusion of the program, it was announced that the Bipartisan Legislative Disability Advocacy Coalition will host an Advocacy Day at the New Jersey State House in Trenton on Monday, May 4, beginning at 9:00 a.m. More details will be released in the coming days.

“This event will bring together advocates to push for bipartisan support and passage of this critical legislation. We look forward to seeing strong bipartisan participation in support of New Jersey’s disability community,” said Sauickie and Clifton.

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Led by Chairwoman Christine Giordano Hanlon, the NJGOP has reached a step known as the “Leader’s Circle,” a title for earned by those who have met a set of standards to improve how it operates and prepares for upcoming elections, including 2026.

“I am proud to say we have met all of the benchmarks of the challenging RNC GROW program in a very short time period,” said NJGOP Chairwoman Hanlon. “We worked tirelessly to meet the program requirements, which will help us become more effective and organized. We are excited to move on to the next phase of party-building.”

“The NJGOP will continue to work closely with the Republican National Committee to continue our progress as a state party,” continued Hanlon. “We appreciate the support of the RNC and their State Party Strategies team as we focus on rebuilding, election integrity, training and strategy in 2026.”

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About the NJGOP
The New Jersey Republican State Committee is the official entity of the Republican National Committee and represents more than 1.6 million Republicans registered in New Jersey. For more information, visit NJGOP.org.

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“The Working Families Tax Cuts is providing sorely-needed tax relief to New Jersey families,” said New Jersey Republican Chairwoman Christine Giordano Hanlon. “Thanks to President Trump and our New Jersey Republican Congressmen Tom Kean, Jr., Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, New Jerseyans are keeping more of their hard-earned money.”

New Jersey residents have also been positively impacted by the 300% cap increase on state and local tax (SALT) deductions, which has brought real relief for taxpayers from skyrocketing state property taxes during nearly a decade of Democratic control.

The child tax credit was also raised based on rising inflation so that it keeps pace with costs. Republicans have also made raising a family more affordable by establishing new investment accounts for children and expanding 529 education savings accounts.

“This landmark legislation not only prevented looming tax hikes, but it also provided major tax relief, especially for working families in New Jersey,” Hanlon added. “Unfortunately, Democrats in Trenton are going in the wrong direction when it comes to taxes, but they should take note. With the right leadership, it is possible to provide tax relief!”

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About the NJGOP
The New Jersey Republican State Committee is the official entity of the Republican National Committee and represents more than 1.6 million Republicans registered in New Jersey. For more information, visit NJGOP.org.

“Like many couples, Michael and I divorced over 20 years ago, and of course, during that process we had disagreements, as many couples do, but never physical. Michael was a good father to our child, and we remain friends to this day.”

It is worth noting that Mr. McGuire is a current member of the Navy reserve and still collects his pension from the NYPD, both of which would not occur had there been a domestic abuse issue. Having navigated single fatherhood during a time where most employers were not amenable to that life adjustment, Mr. McGuire managed to raise a son, remarry, and build a family and family law practice in Freehold. He now helps other couples navigate complex issues that once beleaguered him, turning struggle into strength.

Again, we don’t claim to be perfect and sometimes we get things wrong. Our Founder’s conversation with Mr. McGuire ended amicably and he wished Mr. McGuire well on his campaign.

CJN looks forward to bringing you more headlines as the midterms unfold, but with a much more cautious eye.

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Ferrante brings vast experience in New Jersey politics. His previous work includes serving as the Political Director for Jack Ciattarelli’s 2025 gubernatorial campaign, Campaign Manager for Nick De Gregorio for Congress, and a member of the Ciattarelli for Governor campaign team in both 2017 and 2021. Most significantly, Ferrante served as Political Director for the NJGOP from 2022 to 2023.

“I am very excited to be bringing on Luke Ferrante to serve as the Executive Director of the NJGOP,” said Chairwoman Hanlon. “Through his political work across the State of New Jersey, Luke has earned the respect and trust of party leaders and grass-roots activists alike.”

”He will be a great asset as we move our party forward,” Hanlon added.

“It is an honor to be back at the NJGOP in the role of Executive Director under Chairwoman Hanlon’s leadership,” said Ferrante. “With midterms less than 10 months away, I am eager to get work alongside her to make our party stronger and work towards a better New Jersey.”

About the NJGOP: The New Jersey Republican State Committee is the official entity of the Republican National Committee and represents more than 1.6 million Republicans registered in New Jersey. For more information, visit NJGOP.org.

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“Despite Governor Murphy’s statements to the contrary, New Jersey is neither stronger nor fairer today than it was when he took office. Our state’s residents are certainly not better off now than they were eight years ago,” said Christine Giordano Hanlon, Chairwoman of the New Jersey Republican Party.

Republicans say that an affordability crisis, soaring taxes and skyrocketing energy costs are contributing to record-level outmigration. Murphy’s administration is also marked by the implementation of a school funding formula that led to drastic cuts to many public school districts, in some cases resulting in school closures throughout the state while increasing local property taxes.

“Under this administration, policies supported by Democrats in Trenton have made New Jersey less affordable for our residents,” Chairwoman Hanlon said.

“The Governor claims New Jersey is stronger and fairer, but the question remains: for whom?,” said New Jersey Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco. “The state budget has grown by $22 billion. Property taxes are up by more than $10,000 on average. Unemployment taxes are up. Payroll taxes are increasing, and more and more New Jerseyans are living paycheck to paycheck. Homelessness is rising, affordability is slipping further out of reach, and these should be flashing warning signs for anyone paying attention.”

“Instead, in the final hours of this administration, the Governor and legislative Democrats pushed through another $128 million in new spending on top of a budget that already carries a $4 billion structural deficit. The impacts of this reckless spending will not disappear; it will land squarely on the backs of New Jersey taxpayers,” said Senator Bucco.

Assembly Minority Leader John DiMaio pushed back on what Murphy portrayed as eight years of success.

“The reality is, if you want to lay out a legacy, people are going to remember him a lot differently than he sees it,” Assemblyman DiMaio said

“Going forward, Republicans will continue fighting to restore the American dream for all New Jerseyans and make our state a better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Chairwoman Hanlon, who took the helm of the NJGOP earlier this month with a plan to strengthen and expand the party.

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The New Jersey Republican State Committee is the official entity of the Republican National Committee and represents more than 1.6 million Republicans registered in New Jersey. For more information, visit NJGOP.org.

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In her remarks, Hanlon emphasized restoring confidence in and among republicans across the state. She pledged to be a “year round chair” and will not take a salary or stipend while at the helm of the party. The NJGOP under Hanlon’s tenure will focus on creating a cohesive apparatus for victory down the ballot and across the state, as well as establishing coalitions and an election integrity task force to take on the eroded trust in the electoral process.

”New Jersey is not a one size fits all state,” Hanlon said as she described what she envisioned as a “big tent” party that works for unity in mission and purpose. “We can no longer fight inward and must begin to fight outward,” she remarked.

Hanlon’s record includes building a strong GOP organization in Monmouth County, expanding Republican voter registration, and supporting victories up and down the ballot through grassroots organizing and candidate support. As county clerk, Hanlon championed modernization efforts, voter-access initiatives, and election integrity programs proving effective, results-oriented leadership.

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The column, titled “Déjà vu? Would Becchi’s NJGOP make Spadea’s mistakes?”, argues that Spadea’s costly primary bid collapsed not for lack of money, but because too much of it flowed to consultants and too little toward persuading voters. The author places particular blame on Ocean County GOP power broker and tax felon George Gilmore and a network of political operatives tied to the campaign.

The column echoes a view held by some Spadea supporters who believe the campaign prioritized fundraising and consultant compensation over effective voter outreach. According to the column, the result was an expensive effort that failed to convert spending into electoral success. Rubashov also notes long-standing financial and organizational ties between Becchi’s Jersey 1st organization and Spadea-aligned entities such as the Common Sense Club and Elect Common Sense PAC—relationships that predate Spadea’s formal entry into the race.

The column suggests that some of the same consultants involved in Spadea’s campaign are now positioned to regain influence through a Becchi-led state party, prompting concerns among critics about whether the NJGOP could repeat past strategic missteps.

The piece also revisits national scrutiny of Spadea’s fundraising tactics following a February 2025 report by Politico, which documented repeated small-dollar donations from elderly, out-of-state contributors—some of whom said they were unaware they were giving to a New Jersey gubernatorial candidate. While the column acknowledges that such tactics are not unique to campaigns overall, it argues the controversy underscored deeper issues about campaign priorities.

NJGOP state committee members will meet on January 5th, 2026 to elect the new Chair. Lonegan, former Bogota mayor and a conservative activist, and Jersey1st’s Becchi, (the latter of which lost to then-Rep. Mikie Sherrill in 2020), are being challenged by Monmouth County Clerk and GOP co-chair Christine Giordano Hanlon.

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Hanlon is expected to face former Bogota Mayor Steve Lonegan, and Rosemary Becchi, who lost to then-Congresswoman Sherrill in 2020. Becchi is also the founder of Jersey1st, a think tank supported by Americans for Prosperity, a project of the notably anti-Trump Koch Industries.

Hanlon, a former prosecutor and distinguished attorney, has served as Monmouth County Clerk since 2015, winning each election cycle overwhelmingly. She has also served as a commissioner of the Monmouth County Board of Elections and as a state committeewoman. Hanlon recently won her election as Monmouth’s records chief by over 42,000 votes. She also fended off a primary challenge this year with ease.

As Mikie Sherrill’s transition team takes shape, staffed by a who’s-who’s of far-left technocrats and ideologues, the NJGOP will need to act as the top foil to incoming governor Sherill while also serving as the chief architect of rebuilding a party desperate for a win and an identity. Hanlon, alongside Chairman Shaun Golden, is largely seen as the driving force behind cementing Monmouth as republican stronghold over the last decade. Monmouth insiders consider her an indispensable strategist and the chief architect of county campaigns.

Hanlon is a massive proponent of digital media in both political and public service spheres. Under Hanlon, the Clerk’s Office launched free mobile elections app and comprehensive website for all of the County Clerk’s services, digitizing paper records and increasing electronic filing of property records. Hanlon will most likely leverage a dynamic digital campaign to combat Sherrill and Trenton Democrats and grow the party to attract crucial voting blocs, particularly Gen Z voters and younger in the same way that helped President Trump to return to the White House.

It is unclear when the vote among NJGOP state committee members will take place.

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The video centers on the wrongful termination suit filed by former Borough Administrator Scott Carew. Carew was fired in 2022 and later claimed his dismissal came after he objected to what he believed were improper and excessive legal bills from the borough’s labor counsel. According to public filings, Carew sought a $1.2 million settlement. The borough and its insurer countered near $100,000, and the two sides appeared far apart — until a sudden settlement was reached three days before trial and only 18 days before a control-year election.

The timing is what has residents talking.

The whistleblower’s video includes what appears to be an email from borough attorney Eric Harrison explaining why the agreement was not brought to a public vote at the September 21, 2025 council meeting. The email references concerns from Council President Deanna Gunn — who also serves as vice chair of the Monmouth County Democrats — that the settlement could be “politically weaponized” during campaign season. Critics argue that keeping the settlement from public view may have protected Gunn and boosted Democratic candidates Megan Taraskiewicz and Daniel DeZaio.

The whistleblower’s claims are fueling concern that taxpayer funds may have been deployed to avoid public scrutiny in the final days before voters went to the polls. Some residents are now calling for a full accounting of how and why the deal was reached.

Carew’s underlying allegations were previously reported by the Asbury Park Press, and his lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorney’s fees. Borough officials have not publicly commented on the whistleblower video or the timing of the settlement.

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The New Jersey Globe reported in April 2025 that an Uber-backed PAC will spend over $1 million on the November election. Uber has previously committed $500,000 to Kitchen Table Conservatives, a PAC supporting republican Jack Ciattarelli, but has also sent the same amount to Stand Together NJ, and Sherill-aligned PAC, and has sent $1,000,000 to Workers for a Better New Jersey, a PAC that supported far-left Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop.

Uber’s presence has become an invisible hand in the urban real estate equation: rarely building housing itself, but deeply influencing the conditions that determine where and for whom cities or soon-to-be cities are built. While this can be seen as traditional civic engagement, the tech giant could be quietly positioning itself to cash in on New Jersey’s next wave of housing mandate deals by influencing candidates.

Uber’s influence on large-scale development and affordable housing has been subtle but significant across the country—felt more through policy ripple effects than direct investment. While the company has occasionally partnered with community organizations like Habitat for Humanity or subsidized rides for residents in affordable housing complexes, its core business model has often intersected with urban development in more complex ways. City planners and researchers note that Uber’s expansion has reshaped transit patterns, reduced reliance on public transportation, and in some cases spurred gentrification pressures around high-demand corridors.

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But I’m sure you noticed your electric bills increased by $300 to $1,000! I had one constituent report that his latest electric bill was over $1300! What’s a $30 credit going to do?

That’s not help. That’s an insult.

The reality is simple: this crisis was created in Trenton. And it was Governor Murphy and his allies in the Democrat Legislature, who’ve held total control of New Jersey government for nearly a decade — who imposed the radical energy policies now gutting your wallet.

They shut down reliable energy sources like the Oyster Creek nuclear plant and five major coal and natural gas facilities, eliminating over 20% of New Jersey’s dependable power supply. At the same time, they forced an ideological mandate to “electrify everything” — homes, trucks, stoves, warehouses — without securing a backup plan. Supply was slashed. Demand exploded - and working families are paying the price.

All of this was done with full support from the Democrat majorities in both the Senate and General Assembly. They rubber-stamped Murphy’s agenda every step of the way.

And now, after eight years of empty promises that wind and solar would “cut costs,” we’re left with skyrocketing bills, stalled solar fields, and a headline-making disaster: Ørsted — the world’s largest offshore wind developer, walked away from its New Jersey projects in 2023. The Murphy administration’s response? Blame President Trump. Whether you like President Trump or not, just a reminder, he didn’t take office until 2025.

So how much wind supply replaced the reliable nuclear and natural gas? Zero.

Rather than take responsibility, they’re trying to gaslight you — suggesting the problem is your thermostat, your window blinds, or your “high usage.” Their only solution? A $430 million “rebate” gimmick, repackaging your own money siphoned for years through surcharges like the Societal Benefits Charge and Clean Energy Fund. Didn’t know about those? That’s right, you’ve already paid for it, and now they are handing a tiny piece back just months before an election.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t a refund. It’s a bribe. A desperate attempt to buy your silence before November. Timing is everything right?

While Governor Murphy’s appointed Board of Public Utilities (BPU) lectures you to “run your A/C less,” families across New Jersey are seeing electric bills the equivalent of car payments, some so high they equate to luxury car payments — even after the so-called rebate. Meanwhile, the Legislature remains silent. Not a single Democrat has stepped up to reverse the shutdowns, demand accountability, or most importantly admit this experiment has failed.

The truth is, New Jersey didn’t arrive here by accident. The Democrats had full control of the Governor’s office, the Senate, and the Assembly. For four years they even had the support of the Biden administration in their mis-guided ideological energy quest. They chose this course. They ignored warnings. They dismissed opposition. They gambled with your energy future. And now they want you to pretend it didn’t happen or at least they want you to believe it was caused by someone else.

PJM and regional grid dynamics may influence prices, but let’s not lose focus: New Jersey deliberately destroyed its own energy backbone. That’s a choice Governor Murphy made, with the full support of Trenton Democrats. And now they want to blame everyone but themselves.

Enough is enough.

New Jersey deserves a real energy plan. A plan that is transparent, responsible, and rooted in economic reality, not ideological fantasy. We can embrace cleaner energy, but we must do so with practicality and preparedness, not political posturing.

The next time you open your bill and see a $30 credit, remember what it really is: a Band-Aid over a bullet hole — and a warning sign that the people in charge don’t take your family’s struggles seriously.

So you don’t think I’m all complaints and no action, I’ve tried to save you money on your utility bills, and there are real opportunities to do it sooner than later. I attempted to remove the $180 a year fee utilities charge if you opt-out of a smart meter. I also tried to save you from paying sales tax on electricity and gas which would have immediately saved you almost 7% on your monthly bills. Yes, you pay sales tax on electricity and gas. What did the Democrats do? Voted No on both.

They didn’t just turn off your power. They turned off accountability. We vote for a new governor and all members of the General Assembly this November. You want to lower your energy bills? Make your vote count!

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Assemblyman Alex Sauickie represents thirteen municipalities across Monmouth, Middlesex, Ocean, and Burlington counties in the New Jersey General Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (@AssemblymanAlex), Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), X (@AlexSauickie) or visit AssemblymanAlex.com.

Now, Marlboro taxpayers are on the hook for defending the Board of Education against a lawsuit by the teacher alleging that the girl’s parents engaged in a “transparent attempt to shake down the Marlboro School District for some cash.”

At the May 7th, 2024 Marlboro Board of Education meeting, Bellomo argued against launching an internal investigation and possibly filing a malpractice claim against its former attorney, Marc Zitomer, in response to an incident involving former Memorial Middle School teacher. The teacher was charged with harassment for allegedly inappropriately touching a student, an act reportedly witnessed by a staff member. A social media firestorm among Marlboro residents ensued, with the teacher receiving “death threats and numerous unwanted communications from actual pedophiles and creepy men.” Bomb threats were called into the school, closing all eight district schools. The teacher was found not guilty the following November.

Bellomo, no stranger to causing controversy on social media, cast the deciding vote against self-transparency of the Board, leaving it without an internal review of best practices and ethical standards.

During the board meeting, Bellomo and members debated whether school officials responded properly to the incident and expressed concern over a letter sent by Zitomer to the student's parents. The letter was criticized for allegedly blaming and shaming the parents of the allegedly molested child and was sent without approval from the Board of Education. Board members discussed the possibility of conducting an independent review of the board's and administration's handling of the case, though concerns were raised by Bellomo.

The chief concern raised exclusively by Bellomo was the verbiage of Resolution #14 (page 9-10) on the agenda. The resolution stated:

The Board will authorize the commencement of a comprehensive independent review of the district’s actions and decisions concerning the incident and subsequent management to identify procedural weaknesses and identify areas for improvement. The independent committee, selected by the board will include internal and external experts in educational governance and legal compliance. The Committee will conduct a timely and comprehensive review of the District’s and its Member actions and decisions related to the incident and issue a report with findings and recommendations for improvement and action. This review will be completed within 90 days of the adoption of this motion.

The resolution also outlined course of action with regard to the Board reviewing actions by its former attorney, enhancing communication protocols, and recommitting itself to ethical standards, and subsequent response measures, all of which confused Bellomo who said one incident — in this case, the alleged molestation of a child — “doesn’t promote forward thinking.”

“um, kind of some of the verbiage in here there's a lot in this motion, um, and to be able to agree to all of this motion is something at this point in time, um, I wouldn't be comfortable with", said Bellomo at the meeting.

Unlike several of her colleagues, Bellomo did have knowledge about the letter from Zitomer that was sent out to the parents of the alleged victim. During the April 16th, 2024 meeting where the parents of the alleged molested child raised the allegations to the Board, Bellomo openly stated she knew about the letter prior to the public board meeting, causing others to wonder why she didn’t inform her fellow Board members.

Bellomo ran as part of the Marlboro Values Protected Team in in the 2024 election. Per the team’s campaign website: “Danielle’s genuine care for the children and families of Marlboro shines through in all her endeavors. Her campaign for the Board of Education is driven by a desire to protect and enhance the values that make Marlboro a wonderful place to live and learn. Danielle’s platform is built on the cornerstones of student safety and academic excellence, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

Whether or not having a full investigation of the Board into the alleged molestation and legal malpractice lives up to her previous pledge of transparency is for voters to decide. Bellomo is challenging County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon for Monmouth County Clerk having only been on the Board of Education for less than two years.

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“86” is a a slang term whose definitions include "to reject" or "to get rid of", according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, which also notes that it has more recently been used as a term meaning "to kill." The term “8647” - 47 meaning President Trump, the 47th President - was made popular by former FBI Director James Comey which sparked national outrage. That outrage has now made its way to the Garden State and Monmouth County.

“It is deeply disturbing for anyone to wish harm or death upon another person, including the President of the United States. Such thoughts or actions reveal a troubling mindset,” said Middletown Board of Education President Frank Capone. “There is no place in our school community for such thoughts or rhetoric, and I am deeply troubled and concerned that those entrusted to educate our students would promote such hate.”

“There is no place in our public schools for staff displaying messages that glorify violence or hate. I don’t understand when it became acceptable to threaten a president,” said Assemblywoman and former Holmdel Board of Education President Vicky Flynn, whose district covers Middletown.

”Students must be shielded from this kind of demented behavior. I expect a full investigation and appropriate action to be taken,” Flynn added.

—This is a developing story. Check back here for updates.—

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Representing parts of Monmouth and Ocean counties in Legislative District 10, Kanitra was sworn into the General Assembly in 2024. Previously, he was mayor of Point Pleasant Beach from 2020 until 2023 following a term as councilman.

“It is an incredible honor to be included in this class of fellow hard-driving conservatives with an eye toward a better and more prosperous future. I am looking forward to working with GOPAC to learn how we can more effectively build support for Republican legislators and policies that will lower costs, make our communities safer, and bring us back to solving the real issues that matter, not the nonsense Democrats have pushed,” Kanitra said.

To be included in the yearlong program, a lawmaker must first be nominated by legislative leaders in their state. Most recently, Kanitra was appointed by Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio to serve on the GOP Energy Task Force, a response to rising utility bills and the radical Democrat policies driving the costs.

"Our 2025 Class of Emerging Leaders is the next installment in our mission to build a roster of Republicans who are focused on ideas to make the lives of their constituents easier, safer and better," GOPAC Chairman David Avella said in a statement. "Whether it is leading in their state legislative chamber or running for higher office in the future, we welcome being part of their development and success."

Kanitra also serves on the state’s historical commission and is a member of the following Assembly committees: Telecommunications and Utilities, Public Safety and Preparedness, and Children, Families and Food Security.

GOPAC was founded by Delaware Gov. Pierre “Pete” S. du Pont in 1978 in an effort to build a team of Republican officeholders who could run for congress or higher state offices. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich once served as its chair.

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The prestigious honor was awarded during the NJNEOA's annual training conference held today in Atlantic City, and highlighted Sheriff Golden’s outstanding leadership, dedication to public safety, and unwavering commitment to fighting crime. As Sheriff, has ensured that his office remains at the forefront in the battle against drug abuse with HOPE One, a mobile outreach unit and innovative leading approach to combating the opioid epidemic in Monmouth County. He also participates in drug takeback initiatives and has a Project Medicine drop box at the MCSO that residents have access to 24/7.

Started in 1965, the NJNEOA was organized to encourage; mutual cooperation, discussion and interest in the problems of enforcement concerning drug abuse; to exchange ideas, conduct seminars and conferences to educate those involved in the abatement of the illegal narcotic trade.

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“I am pleased to report that the New Jersey Department of Transportation is committing $10.5 million to fund the LA-2025 LAIF Monmouth County Replacement of Bridge MA-9 over Matawan Creek and the Rehabilitation of Lake Lefferts Dam,” said Commissioner Director Arnone. “This is a big win for Matawan and Monmouth County. It is a direct result of strong partnerships between our state legislators and county government, and it demonstrates what we can achieve through focused advocacy, strategic planning, and persistent leadership.”

The funding will be provided in two phases: $5.5 million in the current fiscal year and an additional $5 million in the following fiscal year, ensuring the continued progress of the project through completion.

The initiative addresses a growing safety and infrastructure concern. Originally constructed in 1927, Bridge MA-9 has deteriorated significantly and lacks modern safety features.

Compounding the issue, the bridge functions as a key component of the Lake Lefferts spillway system, and Ravine Drive itself forms part of the dam embankment. The dam is designated a Class I High Hazard Dam by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), emphasizing the need for immediate rehabilitation.

“This is a major victory for the residents and businesses of Matawan and the region,” said Assemblyman Rob Clifton. “This funding represents years of effort, dating back to the early 2000’s, and I’m proud to have worked closely with Commissioner Director Arnone, and NJDOT Commissioner Francis O’Connor and Assemblyman Alex Sauickie to make it a reality. It’s a clear example of how effective collaboration between state and county leadership delivers real results for our constituents.”

The project will include major infrastructure improvements to enhance safety and accessibility for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. These enhancements include bicycle-compatible shoulders, wider sidewalks, and upgrades to ensure compliance with current AASHTO, NJDOT, and NJDEP standards. Additionally, it will address downstream safety concerns for residents and properties at risk due to the dam’s current condition.

Ravine Drive is a critical east-west connector linking State Route 36 to County Route 516 (Main Street), located just 0.55 miles from the Aberdeen-Matawan Train Station. This route is essential for daily commuters, emergency services, and access to the borough’s vibrant business district. The reconstruction will not only improve safety but also support economic vitality by maintaining access to local small businesses that depend on reliable infrastructure.

“This project is not just about replacing a bridge or repairing a dam—it’s about strengthening the backbone of our community,” said Commissioner Director Arnone. “We are incredibly thankful to the State of New Jersey, DOT Commissioner Francis O’Connor, and Assemblyman Clifton for his commitment and partnership. The combined leadership and support have made this significant and long-overdue investment possible.”

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“The day I discovered my Dad's Playboys in a box, high up on a shelf in his workshop, my life was changed forever," writes the site owner, recalling that it was the “one defining moment in time would serve to set [them] on a lifetime ‘boob-quest’.” Anton Fury, who the site memorializes, was “a well-respected Master in the Fetish, S/M community” who “made a string of ‘Whips & Chains’ films” in the pornography industry.

The link between the titillating website and the candidates it promotes is ironic to say the least. Danielle Bellomo serves on the Marlboro Board of Education, who ran on a platform of allegedly defending kids from licentious materials. Indeed, Bellomo highlights this fight on her campaign website, stating “I currently serve as a Board of Education member, where I have tirelessly fought for parental rights and conservative, traditional values in New Jersey education.” Whether or not Bellomo or Coldwell Banker’s Katie Kelliher think “big-boob photography” matches the traditional values, family-friendly aesthetic Monmouth County boasts remains to be seen.

With former Commissioner candidate Ron Osadacz dropping out after a CJN report on the connection between him, his running mates, and convicted felon John Merla (who serves on the board of Real Republicans of Monmouth County with the insurgent republican trio), the race for Monmouth County’s leadership positions has heated up in more ways than one.

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Monmouth County - Longshot challengers Ron Osadacz and Katie Kelliher have formed a unique alliance in their longshot quest to take out Monmouth Commissioner Tom Arnone and Nick DiRocco. Osadacz and Kelliher — the former, an Aberdeen cop who splits his time as a cigar shop operator and a mid-level manager for a title company; the latter, a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker — have begun relying on disgraced former Keyport Mayor and convicted felon John Merla to secure their victory on Election Day.

Questions abound concerning their alliance, chief among those being: do they know who Merla is?

Merla has been trying to stage a political comeback, but not to much avail given his criminal past. Then U.S. Attorney Chris Christie nailed Merla as part of the corruption investigation Operation Bid Rig for extorting cash payments in exchange for agreeing to exercise official action and influence as mayor in the award of no-bid contracts in 2007.

Per court documents, from September 2003 until November 2004, former Mayor Merla “accepted a series of corrupt cash payments…. In return for the cash payments, defendant Merla agreed, among other things, to steer to [cooperating witness] contracts for public work in Keyport, to attempt to use his official influence to secure work for [cooperating witness] from private companies in Keyport, and to introduce [cooperating witness] to other influential public officials in Monmouth County who were similarly in a position to help [cooperating witness] secure public contracts.”

Merla has become the face of Osadacz and Kelliher’s bid for county commissioner, going so far as knocking on doors for them, serving on a board of rebel republicans alongside them, and hosting their kickoff fundraiser at Keyport’s Town and Country Inn. The risk of Merla-style corruption is high with Osadacz and Kelliher. Osadacz would collect two taxpayer-funded salaries and could still have his other two jobs. Would Osadacz, like Merla, steer his judgment towards his own interests such as his cigar business and its partners, or even developers looking for title companies like his — perhaps even realtors like Kelliher, who could potentially lend favorability to realtor buddies of his and Kelliher’s?

After all, Kelliher who now mixes her politics with her dayjob did shoot a video with Osadacz highlighting his title company, and that’s not even the most concerning factor about Kelliher’s candidacy.

Kelliher’s husband, William, an investigator with the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office had a role in busting Merla-style corruption. Anthony Giordano of Freehold was indicted in 2021 for stealing approximately $1-million from at five victims through fraudulent stock purchases and promissory notes during a three year period between July of 2015 and April of 2018. Instead, he used the money for personal expenses such as travel, entertainment, gas, dry cleaning, a gym membership, meals restaurants, and monthly car payments.

Kelliher’s husband was the lead investigator into Giordano’s crimes which are similar to Merla’s. Further, Kelliher would not only have discretion over her husband’s agency’s budget, but perhaps who they would investigate. All of these factors eventually funnel down to a question for Kelliher and Osadacz, and their colleagues in their respective professions: do reasonable, good people hang out with felons?

Monmouth voters are the ones who will answer that on June 10th.

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