Bramnick condemns racist protest in Washington D.C.
WESTFIELD, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick condemned demonstrations planned at the nation’s capital Sunday, one year after a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville.
“We need to stand up as a nation and tell these racists that America has no tolerance for the hate they are selling,” said Bramnick. “Their views are un-American.”
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Minority leader talks gerrymandering, free community college, Trump
In the upcoming midterm elections, every vote will count. But the collective influence of voters is diminished by partisan gerrymandering — the penchant of politicians to manipulate electoral maps in a way that gives them an advantage. So says the state’s top Republican. Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick sat down with Chief Political Correspondent Michael Aron.
Aron: Assemblyman, you wrote an Op-Ed recently about gerrymandering. You’re upset that so many legislative districts around the state are solidly Republican or solidly Democratic. What’s the diagnosis? What’s the problem?
Bramnick: The problem is that legislators, congresspeople don’t want to give up their seats, so they’re gerrymandering in such a way that it’s Republican or Democrat. But that is a problem for voters, because — and I think it’s a problem for our country — most people in our country and in New Jersey are in the middle. Gov. Kean once said 70 percent of the people are kind of in the middle. But if you have districts that are very Republican or very Democrat, the problem becomes that legislator or congressman moves to the right or left, and that’s why we have such polarization. We can set up these districts and make them more competitive, and then you would get somebody would have to play to the middle, as opposed to the right and the left. I just think people lose their right to vote when it doesn’t make any difference.
Aron: Are you proposing something for the 2020 census year?
Bramnick: I’ve been proposing a constitutional amendment for years, saying that you try to make as many competitive districts as possible, giving the voters real choice. I don’t think it’s getting any headway right now in the Democratic majority, because, you know, they’re in the winning seat right now.
Aron: How do you do that mechanically? How do you create more competitive districts?
Bramnick: Well, think of the way it’s mapped now. Now, the districts are weird, you know. You could draw a funny little shape and that’s the district. You could do the same thing and include Democrat and Republican towns, as opposed to all Republican towns. Like, my district is mostly Republican. Sen. Scutari’s district’s mostly Democrat. You could merge those two districts, they’re contiguous, and you would just put one Democratic town more in my district, one Republican town in his district. Make it more competitive so it makes a difference.
((This has been edited for time Aron: Would you abolish the system that we’ve used for the past 70 years where five Republicans and five Democrats get in a room and they reach an impasse. And then the Supreme Court appoints a tie breaker, who most recently sided with the Democrats. Would you do away with that who system?
Bramnick: I’m happy to keep the system as long as the model that they have to follow is which map comes up with more competitive districts. And that 11th appointee — the arbitrator, the one who makes the decision — has to follow that mandate: pick the map with the most competitive district. And if he doesn’t, then it goes to court and that person has to do that.))
Aron: And as I think you just said, this is probably wishful thinking. The Democrats enjoy a comfortable majority in both houses of the Legislature. They’re probably not going to buy into your proposal?
Bramnick: I’m not even sure Republicans would as well. I think this is about basically self-preservation, and I don’t see politicians changing. But it seems to me, not only important to you as a voter, but important in terms of our country being less polarized.
Aron: How is Gov. Phil Murphy doing from the vantage point of the Assembly Republican leader?
Bramnick: I think he’s way to the left in spending. I think it’s just, he’s almost blind toward how much the state costs the average taxpayer. He has a philosophy, and I think he deeply believes in it. I don’t think he’s a phony. He’s almost like a Bernie Sanders, maybe to the left of Bernie Sanders. But this tax and spend stuff? It’s not going to end well for New Jersey. As I said, nice fellow. His wife is very nice as well. But policy wise? I couldn’t be farther away from his concept of tax and spend.
Aron: What about the vision he presents of a modernized, invested, a state in which there’s heavy investment in public education, public transportation, innovation economy. Is that pie in the sky?
Bramnick: Well it’s pie in the sky if people are leaving and moving to other states.
Aron: Are they?
Bramnick: Without any doubt. I hear it every day. The Democrats think no one is leaving. You ask the average person you meet on the street whether they think this is affordable and whether they’re going to stay, I can tell you that poll ends very poorly. So, his pie in the sky, and that’s what it is. I don’t think he sees the reality of the average taxpayer. He’s broad. He has a broad vision. I just think it’s the wrong vision.
Aron: I thought you were going to say he has so much money that he can’t relate, but you’re not saying that.
Bramnick: Well to some degree that is true. Somebody that has that much money, I think it is difficult to understand how the middle class really struggles. What I don’t understand, because he comes from the business world, business people must be telling him that they’re moving their businesses out of the state. But, look, I think he’s committed to what he’s going to do and I respect that. I think it’s the wrong road.
Aron: His roots are middle class, or has he would say, middle class on a good day back when he was young.
Bramnick: Yes, but he is deeply committed to a very serious tax and spend policy. I mean, to raise billions of dollars in taxes, he wants free community college. Let me ask you about free community college. Why should it be free? Why shouldn’t that student have some skin the game?
Aron: Because K-12 education is free and why not make progress and make the next two years free as well?
Bramnick: Because, one, we don’t have the money. But, even if we did have an incredible amount of money, why not put a little skin in the game for the student? Why is it totally free? There are a lot of people who work their way through college. Look, maybe 80 percent, 75 percent. Why 100 percent free? I think people have to have skin in the game.
Aron: You’ve been the champion of civility in Trenton for a couple of years. I think you held something called Rally for the Reasonable?
Bramnick: Absolutely.
Aron: How’s that going?
Bramnick: It’s difficult because people are so mad at government. Life is difficult in terms of making ends meet. So you have to say to people, “Listen, let’s talk to each other.” And I’m not sure that Donald Trump, even though he’s a Republican president, is the king of civility. That’s not helpful. I would prefer if he showed more civility and more humility. I think that hurts my cause a bit and I’ve said that.
Aron: Are you embarrassed that he’s the titular leader of your party?
Bramnick: I would say I’m extremely, I’m not less concerned about policy, although I disagree on some policy. I am concerned about the lack of humility. I think that is problematic as an example for young people and for older people. I really believe that humility, especially as a leader, is really important. I don’t see a lot of that, and that’s deeply disconcerting to me.
((Also deleted for time — Aron: You think he could get re-elected today?
Bramnick: I’m not an expert. In today’s world, I don’t make any predictions because the economy is doing really well. Generally, across the country, the unemployment numbers are really good. So I don’t think people are voting based on humility anymore. They’re based on jobs and the economy. Me, humility is important. It always has been.))
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Bramnick urges the Legislature to act on affordable housing
By Michael Aron, Chief Political Correspondent | August 3, 2018, 5PM EST
Despite more than 200 towns settling affordable housing agreements, many more are still grappling with how and when they’ll meet their obligations. One prominent Republican lawmaker is calling out his democratic colleagues, saying he wants the control out of the courts and back in the Legislature. Chief Political Correspondent Michael Aron sat down with Assemblyman Jon Bramnick.
Aron: Assemblyman, you’ve held three town halls on affordable housing in the past few months. Why that issue?
Bramnick: Because the Legislature won’t do anything about it. This has been in the courts. The courts have told the Legislature you need to address this issue. They haven’t done it, so consequently you have judges with no experience in planning and communities making determinations of thousands of units going into towns that I represent and all over the state. It’s absurd.
Aron: Are the judges ordering that housing be built in the suburbs?
Bramnick: Yes, and to be honest with you, they do it pursuant to some formula. It should be done pursuant to policy of the Legislature, not dictate of the court.
Aron:I sat through a hearing where the issue was pretty well aired out, and you were part of that hearing. Kevin Walsh of Fair Share Housing testified that day that a large part of what this is about is the desire of municipalities to keep minorities out of suburban towns. What’s your view on that?
Bramnick: Ridiculous. Every meeting I’ve had is bipartisan. You have very liberal Democrats at that meeting and conservative Republicans, but they agree on one thing. If you’re going to bring 1,000 new units into a community and have thousands of new students in the schools, it has to be done in a reasonable way. And just saying build 1,000 units in a small town is ridiculous. You have to determine where these units should go on a regional basis. And no one is trying to exclude anyone. It’s about over development, because they’re surely happy to build affordable housing. How about this one? Affordable housing is not really what’s being built. What’s really being built are, let’s say, 1,000, and of that, maybe 150 or 200 are affordable. If the developers are so committed to affordable housing, just build the affordable housing and you won’t have an issue with the municipalities. It’s the other 800 units which are the problem.
Aron: I think the finances don’t work for the builder in that case.
Bramnick: That’s what I understand, but maybe there needs to be a program where we put affordable housing in, but it’s on a limited basis. Remember, most of these units being built are not affordable, so why doesn’t the Legislature look at that? I’ll tell you why. They’re afraid of the issue.
Aron: You’re saying that the Legislature should create something like the Council on Affordable Housing [COAH] that it created in 1985 and that everyone learned to hate, very quickly, when COAH started imposing quotas on towns all around the state. COAH died of its own volition, of its own lack of momentum. What should the Legislature do?
Bramnick: Well, first it should be regional planning, not town by town. So you take a section of Central Jersey, for example, and you say, ‘OK. What is the best place with transportation and infrastructure to put housing?’ Obviously you can allot some to different municipalities, but to do it town by town is very difficult, especially by the courts. We use to have regional contribution agreements, meaning that we could transfer some of the responsibility to urban municipalities.
Aron: And Assembly Speaker Joe Roberts said this is racist and get away with them because everybody was sending their money to Camden and Newark to build the housing there so they could get out of their obligation in the suburbs.
Bramnick: Well, first, it wasn’t all housing. It was a small percentage of housing, and the urban mayors liked the fact that they can rehabilitate certain buildings. The real question is it shouldn’t be in the courts, so my questions to the Democratic majority is why are you leaving it in the courts? I’ll tell you why, because I think the suburban legislators, and some urban legislators on the Democratic side, are afraid of this issue. It’s a complicated issue. One they will not address. They’d rather just have the courts do it and ignore it, and that is creating expense, litigation costs and bad results.
Aron: Let me ask you quickly about a couple of other things. Senate President Steve Sweeney has a task force that’s supposed to report very shortly looking at the finances of the state. Is that going to have a big impact, or that going to go the way of many other task force reports?
Bramnick: Well, Steve Sweeney being the president of the Senate, I don’t think anyone is going to ignore that report. And I think Steve Sweeney was ahead of the curve when it came to pension reform. Before there was a Republican governor, he was on that. His life was threatened. So I think he is somebody who has some common sense solutions. I don’t think it’ll be ignored, and I don’t think Gov. Murphy at his peril would ignore what Steve Sweeney is doing.
Aron: He just went to Italy the same week Sweeney was supposed to unveil what his package was. But be that as it may, quickly, Bob Hugin. We’ve learned that the Republican U.S. Senate candidate, fought to keep women out of his dining club when he was at Princeton and even after when he was the alumni president of the club. How much damage does that do to him as a candidate for Senate?
Bramnick: Thirty, 40 years ago he was on an issue which I’m sure he regrets, but I’ll tell you this. He is pro-choice, pro-gay marriage. This is a guy who’s, in my judgment, a moderate Republican against a very troubled Democratic senator, Bob Menendez. I would say that the voters are ready for change when it comes to Bob Menendez. I wouldn’t worry about Bob Hugin, and he’s got the resources to make sure the message gets out. That’s good.
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Leader Bramnick comments on the Courts mandating high density housing on our towns such as Watchung, Cranford and Basking Ridge on News12 Power and Politics.
In Hammonton, Atlantic County, for a Rally of the Reasonable, discussing issues facing our State. We must make our state competitive.
Higher taxes are not the answer. Court imposed high density housing is not the answer and gerrymandering districts to keep one party rule is not the answer.
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Assembly Housing Committee holds a contentious public hearing
The 45-year argument over New Jersey affordable housing got a good airing out Wednesday.
The fight pits municipalities, that want to protect their character, against builders, who want to build housing, and advocates who want to open up the suburbs to minorities, veterans and the disabled.
Mayor after mayor came before the Assembly Housing Committee to complain that housing developers are using the law to try gobble up their towns.
“A developer came in with one of these projects and they asked for a density that’s much more than we’re comfortable with, which would impact our town. Park Ridge has 9,000 residents, 3,500 doors. They said give us roughly 1,000 units, and if you don’t, we’re going to go to a judge and ask for 2,000 and we’re going to build affordable,” said Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna. “That’s not what this affordable process was meant to do. It’s not meant to hold a gun to our heads.”
For years a body called COAH, the Council on Affordable Housing, determined a municipality’s fair share of affordable housing need. Then, COAH went moribund, and the decisions about allocations reverted to superior courts where they were in the 70s and 80s. Municipalities don’t like that.
“At this point I ask you to reinstate COAH immediately. Get it out of the courts. Stop the endless chain of litigation. Give towns a chance to breathe and save taxpayer dollars,” said former Bernards Township Mayor Al LiCata.
Mayors especially don’t like the builders’ remedy, which allows four market rate units to be built for every affordable unit a developer provides.
“We are required to build 306 affordable units, or approximately 1,530 total units, in a township that has a total of 3,300 units now. We have approximately 10,000 residents. In the course of the seven year period, our population will increase by 40 percent,” said Michael Viola, Colts Neck Township committeeman.
“Some of the ides we’ve heard today are worthy of real consideration. Some of them, frankly, are trying to move the ball backward 20, 30, 40 years to early-COAH processes and they don’t work. We’ve seen it not work for 15, 20 years now, which is why the Supreme Court wound up with the decision in the first place, and frankly which is why some of the settlement agreements now that are coming out are being reacted to so negatively by the towns because they’ve been absent for so long,” said Tom Troy, president of the New Jersey Builders Association.
Then there are the advocates, like Kevin Walsh of Fair Share Housing, who push to open up the suburbs in the name of integration.
“It is the fundamental problem in New Jersey that municipalities use their zoning to exclude. They use their zoning to exclude people with disabilities. They use their zoning to exclude African-American and Hispanic families. That is the fundamental problem,” said Walsh.
Walsh pointed to the demographics of the towns whose mayors testified.
“Where did the opposition come from today? Far Hills, not even 1 percent African-American. Montvale, 1 percent African-American. Colts Neck, 1.7 percent. Bernards, 2 percent. Park Ridge, 1 percent,” Walsh said.
Republicans Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi and Assemblyman Jon Bramnick objected.
“You may, through your testimony, throw race into this discussion. That’s your prerogative. But I would submit that there are numbers of housing units that would be deemed overdevelopment,” Bramnick said.
“It’s a hot-button issue. Unfortunately, when you talk about different people from the NJ Builders, to the NAACP, to people talking about social justice, it’s going to be hot,” housing committee chairman Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly said.
Wednesday’s hearing was just meant to open up the conversation, said Wimberly. No legislation was considered, but that’s next.
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To be less divided New Jersey needs competitive districts
By Jon Bramnick from the Star Ledger on Sunday, July 22, 2018
Voters should select their representatives instead of the other way around, but that is not the way it works in New Jersey.
The redistricting process allows politicians to choose their constituents by manipulating electoral maps to keep their seats, and keep their party in power. One party is likely to win elections by an overwhelming margin as a result, while the opposing party has little to no chance of winning. Manipulating districts for one political party’s benefit is called gerrymandering.
It diminishes the influence of voters, reduces the number of competitive districts and contributes to the rising partisan polarization across the country and in Congress. It leaves far too many voters with no meaningful choice and a feeling that they have no power to change things, which discourages voter turnout.
We want a democracy that puts the power in the hands of the people to fairly elect their representatives in state and federal government. The way things work now it is becoming more difficult.
I am proposing that we amend the state constitution to define what a competitive district is and stop manipulation so the party in power doesn’t manufacture election results. A competitive district must not favor a political party by more than ten percent, and the districts will change based on voter turnout in our elections for governor.
When districts are crafted to give one party the advantage it polarizes political parties and people; and when you have districts that are extreme in partisanship it breeds extreme representation. As Gov. Tom Kean once said, most people in New Jersey want to us govern from the middle.
Manipulating voting districts causes elected officials to be more extreme, either far to the political left or the right, with less chance of compromise. Most Americans are in the middle of the political spectrum and gerrymandering of districts is a disservice to our democracy.
Real reform would maximize the number of truly competitive districts so that voters have a choice and can throw out incumbents if they want. That is the intention of amending the state constitution, so New Jerseyans are sure that they are getting a fair chance and the game is not rigged.
The number of competitive legislative districts in New Jersey has fallen dramatically over the past two decades. Voter turnout in the past few elections has gotten worse and worse. Governor Phil Murphy was elected by less than 40 percent of voters because people are discouraged by how bad things are.
The last nine elections have given Democrats a large majority in the legislature, allowing them to control the policy and politics of the state even though it does not wholly reflect the electorate.
In that time the popular vote has been split nearly 50-50. Yet, gerrymandering has allowed Democrats to pick up ten seats in the state Assembly in spite of half of the voters’ desires. The electoral map is not responsive to the will of the people, and as the majority unjustly increases the power of voters is diminished.
Change starts with the voters. Our government is supposed to be representative of the people, for the people and by the people. My proposed amendment would ensure that the people’s input is paramount to fair elections.
The amendment allows any New Jersey voter to challenge the established districts if they do not think that the electoral map promotes competition. The challenge will go straight to the state Supreme Court, and if it is successful a new map will have to be drawn to promote fair elections.
Over the past two decades New Jersey has increasingly been mired in one-party rule as the political environment has become more spiteful. The political polarization has made it worse, and there needs to be real change.
The electoral map should represent the people and voters shouldn’t be discouraged because of politics. We need to make sure our districts are competitive and fair. That’s my goal.
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Important!
The Legislature is finally going to have a hearing on court mandated high-density housing.
Please join us.
Wednesday July 25th at 10am
State House Annex, Committee Room 16
125 W. State Street
Trenton, NJ
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Bramnick urges residents to voice opposition to Mount Laurel housing
State Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick, a Republican who represents the 21st Legislative District, told about 60 Cranford residents last week that public outcry can effect change in policy with regard to the state’s Mount Laurel housing mandates. Resident opposition could stave off plans such the one that Hartz Mountain Industries has presented, which would add 905 apartment units on a 30.5-acre property at 750 Walnut Ave, he said.
CRANFORD — State Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick is urging residents to continue to voice their opposition as the clock ticks toward the township’s deadline to draft a plan that will satisfy its Mount Laurel housing obligation.
Bramnick delivered this message to about 60 Cranford residents Monday, July 9. It is a plea he makes at every town hall meeting he hosts and likely will repeat on Thursday, Sept. 20, at a rally on the steps of the Statehouse Annex, which he announced last week.
Bramnick said public outcry can effect change, and possibly stave off plans like that presented by Hartz Mountain Industries to build 905 apartments on a 30.5-acre property at 750 Walnut Ave.
“I am going to say, as a trial lawyer, that public sentiment has some effect on court decisions,” Bramnick, a Republican from Plainfield who represents the 21st Legislative District, including Cranford, said in a July 10 interview.
“The law is technically the law, but there is always discretion among courts, among judges, in the judges’ purview. The more the judges hear about the outrage by citizens, interpretation of the law can change. It may take other things into consideration the Supreme Court hasn’t mentioned. So, loud voices that make sense can affect even courts, in my judgment.”
Although Bramnick also has spoken to concerned residents in Basking Ridge and Watchung, Cranford has emerged as one of the main battlegrounds between those who champion court-mandated affordable housing and those who decry overdevelopment. Developers who seek to invoke “builder’s remedy” lawsuits to get their projects approved take on towns that are concerned about what these projects will mean for their infrastructure and schools, tax rates and property values.
“Say No to 750 Walnut” signs began to crop on local lawns last year after Hartz Mountain unveiled its plans to build on its underutilized property. The complex of offices and commercial space sits on the boundary with Clark on the corner of Walnut Avenue and Raritan Road, bordered by a freight rail line to the northwest and Hyatt Hills Golf Complex to the southwest.
A Superior Court judge ruled the town has until Dec. 31 to satisfy its Mount Laurel — or affordable housing — obligations.
The issue stems from a 1975 New Jersey Supreme Court ruling involving the town of Mount Laurel in which the court declared every municipality in the state is obligated to zone for its own “fair share” of “affordable” housing, to be reviewed every decade.
Bramnick traces the issue back to the state Democratically-controlled state Legislature, which he said has refused to step in and wrest it away from the courts.
If the issue were put it into the hands of lawmakers, he would like to see a more sensible approach to addressing Mount Laurel housing. He wants local planning boards and master plans to again dictate what is constructed in their towns and favors programs that would “rehabilitate housing and urban centers” instead of building new housing. He also champions a regional approach rather than a town-by-town solution.
“Let’s assume we need 5,000 units in central Jersey,” Bramnick said. “Fine. Let’s get a regional planning board to determine where they go. But to say Cranford needs this many and Scotch Plains needs this many, and each town has to litigate on its own — absurd.”
Whether he’s speaking to waiters in Watchung, bus drivers in Basking Ridge or crane operators at the Kilkenny House in Cranford, Bramnick said he hears frustration and concern from people across party lines.
“I don’t go in there and tell them what we face,” he said. “We face a Democratic Legislature that supports the concept of affordable housing even if it involves court-imposed high-density housing.
“That is where the Democratic majority is and you, as a resident of Cranford, will suffer the consequences of the heavy Democratic majority’s position on thousands of new units in Cranford. That’s it. Until the Democratically controlled Legislature realizes this is bipartisan effort against this type of court-imposed housing, they won’t do anything. I simply try to raise their voices.”
Hartz Mountain was scheduled to appear before the Cranford Planning Board on Wednesday, July 18. At the May 16 meeting, board members heard testimony in the developer’s application to have 750 Walnut Ave. rezoned for “inclusionary residential development.” The proposed site of the apartment units is currently zoned commercial and allows for uses such as professional offices, health care facilities, distribution centers and research laboratories.
The 750 Walnut Avenue property was once a bustling complex of buildings that housed Johnson & Johnson, Bank of America and other global giants. LabCorp occupies about 80,000 square feet in the rear of one building and PSE&G occupies about 22,000 square feet, primarily for a call center, according to James Rhatican, vice president of land use and development for Hartz Mountain. Other than that, he said, there’s a “very substantial vacancy” in the complex.
Whether residents of Cranford, like those who created ad hoc groups such as Keep Cranford Quaint, can stave off Hartz Mountain is unclear. Until then, Bramnick said he will continue to speak to local groups and urge them to keep speaking up.
“I think the more the courts, the Legislature and the town fathers hear from the growing number of residents, and the voice of both Democrats and Republicans grows around the state, and mayors as well, that you’re going to see some changes here,” Bramnick said. “Now, the extent of the changes I don’t know, but when you see Democrats come to a town hall meeting and agreeing with Republicans, you know you have something the Legislature is going to have to pay attention to the town fathers and town mothers.”
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Bramnick urges residents to push back against ‘high-density’ housing
“Now the court is micromanaging how many units you have to build in all these communities. That is ridiculous,” said Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick.
Bramnick led this Cranford town hall-style strategy session on stopping court-mandated high-density housing, a code phrase for affordable housing.
“Most people move to a community, they want the city council, the planning board, and local officials to make the decision what housing needs are for that community,” Bramnick said.
The fight over affordable housing in New Jersey has been a long one. When the Christie administration seemed to drag its feet on the issue, the courts took over and mandated how many affordable housing units towns must build. More than 200 towns have settled with advocates and developers, from Moorestown to Mahwah. Among them, Woodbridge, literally replacing public housing with private affordable units and giving low-income tenants first dibs.
“I hope all the redevelopers who are putting up luxury apartments throughout town don’t get mad at me, but you can’t tell the difference,” said Caroline Ehrlich, executive director of the Woodbridge Redevelopment Agency.
But Cranford is among the 100 or so towns not settling. Bramnick and the top lawyer for Assembly Republicans spoke of more than a half dozen bills that would ease towns’ obligations and have them, instead of judges, make affordable housing decisions. One problem: Democrats control the Assembly and the Senate.
“The Democrats like the concept of moving high-density housing into municipalities. It’s as simple as that. Now, how do I know that? Because they won’t pass or let us vote on any of these bills that would change the law,” Bramnick said.
One man asked how to level the playing field in the Legislature. Bramnick explained the party that wins the most legislative seats redraws the district lines for the state Legislature and Congress every 10 years. To the victor goes the advantage of protecting, or creating, the most districts, better known as gerrymandering.
“If you had competitive districts all of this country, people would have to be in the middle. They’d have to listen to both sides. So now what you have is extremes running this country, and you have extremes in Trenton,” Bramnick said.
One Cranford resident suspected imposing affordable housing on wealthy towns has the ulterior motive of influencing election outcomes.
“It’s about changing the demographics of those communities and changing the vote, and that’s what it’s about,” said Chemda Mindy Kipness. “And that’s why you’ll never get partnership from the other side.”
Cranford has been home to Don Smith for 51 years. He realizes the odds the Republicans face in the Legislature and bemoaned, in the courts, developers eager to build win most of the time.
“And that means we’re going to get jammed right down our throat with stuff that we cannot take as an overdevelopment situation with schools, police, fire, EMS, public taxes, for crying out loud. They’re going to go out of sight,” Smith said.
Bramnick urged the opponents of court-mandated affordable housing to show up for a rally Sept. 20 outside the State House Annex because he advised there’s one thing lawmakers pay attention to: numbers.
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Bramnick announces rally against state-imposed, high-density housing
Bramnick announces rally against state-imposed, high-density housing
July 10,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
WESTFIELD N.J. ,Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick (R-Union) announced plans for a rally against state-imposed, high-density housing at a town hall meeting tonight in Cranford. The rally will be held on the steps of the Statehouse Annex on Thursday, September 20 at 10 a.m.
Jon Bramnick , “We cannot allow the Courts to require our towns to build thousands of residential units without regard to the impact on schools, traffic and property taxes. The legislature must act immediately. Both democrats and republicans agree that action is needed now and at the very least a moratorium on litigation until the legislature acts. Local zoning laws should be respected.”
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We cannot allow the Courts to require our towns to build thousands of residential units without regard to the impact on schools, traffic and property taxes. The legislature must act immediately.
Both Democrats and Republicans agree that action is needed now and at the very least a moratorium on litigation until the legislature acts. Local zoning laws should be respected.
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GOV. MURPHY’S ‘SCARY’ AND ‘EXTREME’ FISCAL POLICIES
Assembly Minority Leader Bramnick suggests even Democratic lawmakers will be hard pressed to back the governor’s budget plan and call for higher taxes
“Scary” and “extreme” are the words Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick (R-Union) repeatedly used yesterday to describe Gov. Phil Murphy’s plan to hike taxes and increase spending. Talking to reporters, Bramnick said Murphy’s fiscal policies are putting Democratic lawmakers in a difficult spot with New Jersey’s tax-weary voters.
“It’s just a matter of time before the public goes, ‘You know something, maybe we should give a chance to the other side,’” Bramnick said, alluding to next year’s midterm election. “That’s how it works.”
It’s not surprising that Republicans like Bramnick don’t see eye to eye with Murphy when it comes to the state budget. But there’s also been an unwillingness among Democrats to accept the governor’s call for higher taxes. That’s given the GOP an opening to draw a more direct a contrast between their approach and the governor’s.
Putting the pressure on
For example, while Murphy is calling for a significant spending increase, Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr. (R-Union) has proposed a measure that would limit yearly state spending hikes to a modest 2 percent. Meanwhile, Bramnick is backing legislation that would force lawmakers to say whether they agree with Murphy’s call to break a bipartisan deal from just a few years ago that increased the state gas tax in exchange for a slight reduction of the sales tax. The GOP bills are unlikely to win passage in the Democratic-controlled Legislature, but they do underscore the pressure the Republicans want to put on Democratic lawmakers in the runup to the June 30 deadline for a new state budget.
“It’s hard for me to understand how the Democrats can come to terms with the extreme and scary, tax-filled agenda of the governor,” Bramnick said.
In all, Murphy’s $37.4 billion budget plan for fiscal 2019 would increase state spending by nearly 8 percent, compared with the budget for the current fiscal year, which was enacted by former Gov. Chris Christie. A major chunk of the increase would go to the grossly underfunded public-employee pension system. Other increases are planned for K-12 education, public preschool, college-tuition assistance programs, and New Jersey Transit.
Frustrated with cost of living
Speaking about Murphy’s budget proposals yesterday, Bramnick said New Jersey residents are already frustrated with the state’s high cost of living. Adding insult to injury, he suggested, was Murphy’s recent decision to ink a new deal with the union that represents the largest group of state workers — without getting any real concessions from labor leaders. That decision also came as Murphy’s budget carries on a cut in funding for the state’s popular Homestead property-tax relief program, though that’s something Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex) has already promised will be reversed.
It’s the cumulative impact of Murphy’s proposals, from the tax hikes to his promise to eventually provide free community college to students across the state, that is leading many of his constituents to say they are ready to leave New Jersey, Bramnick said.
“I’m just hoping we don’t scare everybody out of this state,” he said.
While Democratic legislative leaders so far have refused to embrace Murphy’s call for higher taxes, there is a sense in Trenton that they will eventually acquiesce, at least to some degree. If they do, that will likely prompt Republicans to do everything they can to make sure voters remember who to blame in 2019.
For example, Murphy has called the slight reduction of the sales tax — from 7 percent to 6.625 percent — a “gimmick” that was designed to give the Republican Christie a political talking point. But the lower sales tax is now saving taxpayers an estimated $581 million, and the 2016 tax legislation included a “poison pill” that was designed to protect the bipartisan deal by requiring the gas-tax hike to be repealed if any of the tax cuts that went along with it are eventually reversed.
Bramnick doesn’t want this year’s possible undoing of the 2016 tax deal to get muddied up in obscure budget language, which could be used to get around the poison pill. He’s calling for there to be a separate vote held in the State House that puts every lawmaker on record, giving New Jersey voters a chance to know exactly who reneges on the bipartisan agreement.
“You can call it whatever you want, but it did lower taxes,” Bramnick said. “It may not have had a significant effect, but it was a lowering of some tax, which is never easy in this state.”
He also suggested that it’s Democratic lawmakers who have the most to lose next fall when voters will be casting their ballots in the first midterm election of Murphy’s tenure.
“We know from all the polling that the pocketbook issues are the most important,” he said.
Assembly Pro Tem Green remembered by colleagues We began our government service in Plainfield. Jerry was Chairman of the Democrats and I was a Republican Councilman. During our 35 years we always had a strong friendship -Jon Bramnick
Photo Courtesy of the Union County Democratic Party
Jerry Green, who was a member of the state Assembly representing the 17th and later the 22nd Legislative Districts since 1992, died on April 18, two days after his 79th birthday.
UNION COUNTY, NJ — Jerry Green, the third-highest ranking member in the state Assembly who died April 18, was remembered by his colleagues in the state Legislature as a leader, friend and mentor. He was 79.
Green, a Democrat, served in the Assembly since 1992 and resigned in January as chairman of the Union County Democratic Committee. He left his position in the county Democratic Party to “focus his energy on recovering from an illness,” a January press release from the UCDC said.
State Sen. Nicholas Scutari — who represents the parts of parts of Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties — recalled the former assemblyman as a champion of progressive policies. Green represented the 22nd Legislative District, which includes Clark, Fanwood, Linden and Plainfield, same as Scutari.
“He was so much more than just a colleague and mentor to succeeding generations of politicians — he was a true gentleman legislator who should be remembered for championing progressive policies aimed at helping those in need,” Scutari said in an April 19 statement.
Funeral services were private, according to release from the Union County Democratic Party, but a public memorial was being planned. No details were available. Green served as a county freeholder for two non-consecutive terms. In the Assembly, he chaired the Housing and Community Development Committee and was a member of the Health and Senior Services Committee.
Legislators on both sides of the aisle, including Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick, sent condolences to Green and his family.
Bramnick represents the 21st Legislative District, which includes parts of Morris, Somerset and Union counties.
“Jerry Green was a friend for 30 years,” Bramnick said in an April 19 statement. “We understood that talking to each other and treating each other with respect was very important. I will miss Jerry and thank him for his service to our state. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
LocalSource previously reported that Green had not attended any legislative or voting sessions since at least November, when he was re-elected to serve another term.
Other local lawmakers, including state Sen. Joseph Cryan and Assemblyman Jamel Holley also remembered Green. Both represent parts of Elizabeth, Hillside, Union and Roselle in the 20th Legislative District.
“Jerry Green was a champion of civil rights and was on the frontlines in our state in the fight to provide an affordable and accessible education for all of our children and to provide affordable housing for everyone,” Cryan said in a statement.
Holley, meanwhile, called the late assemblyman an inspiration in an April 19 statement. “Jerry was a hard-working man his entire life; he never retired,” Holley said. “He never stopped trying to help others get ahead. I will never forget his service to New Jersey, as he was focused on creating better policy and inspiring conversation on the issues that truly matter in our state.
“I will miss my friend, my mentor and the reason why I am committed to serving others.”
_______________________________
It is time to talk to each other and find common ground, I am touring the state looking for the reasonable people.
Please visit my website below.
https://www.rallythereasonable.com/
Leader Bramnick comments on New Jersey job growth in response to the Governor’s new tax and spend plan on Comcast Newsmakers
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick commended the Assembly’s bipartisan unity in opposing oil and gas drilling off New Jersey’s coast. The Shore-protection resolution was overwhelmingly approved with a 71-2 vote.
“This is a clear message to those who want to do offshore drilling at our New Jersey shore,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “Our voice is unified and strong. We stand together, we oppose it, it is simply wrong and as we all know the Jersey Shore is sacred ground. This is a very special place.”
This is impressive. Westfield Police Officer stops to buy Girl Scout Cookies. I was afraid it was going to be a zoning violation but it was just “good old kindness” on display
Minority Leader Jon Bramnick’s opening comments at the 218th Legislature
Today Leader Bramnick had the honor to address the opening ceremonies of the 218th legislative session
Leader Bramnick discussing 2018 and New Jersey at News 12 in Edison
Leader Bramnick is proud to swear in Chris Salemme as a member of the New Jersey Bar. Chris will be an outstanding attorney
Tonight is the first night of Hanukkah. Happy Hanukkah to all of New Jersey.
Tonight Leader Bramnick had the honor of being the MC to help Daytop New Jersey, an incredible facility that provides rehab for those addicted to opioids and other drugs.
Leader Bramnick at the Cranford Food Truck Festival with Commissioner Kalnis and Rich Buontempo
Leader Bramnick with other representatives and elected officials in Bernards to thank our veterans
Leader Bramnick at the opening of a new section of Children’s Specialized Hospital in Mountainside.
Leader Bramnick stands with New Jobs PAC that supports creating jobs in New Jersey. Thank you for your endorsement!
Super Heroes at the law office today. Happy Halloween!
The team getting ready to hit the streets for Saturday campaigning
Leader Bramnick speaking with students at Tamaques Elementary school this morning
Legislative Panel Breakfast
with
Jon Bramnick, Richard Codey,
Tom Kean, and Vincent Prieto
Shackamaxon Country Club | 100 Tillinghast Turn | Scotch Plains
Join us for a panel discussion with the top legislators in New Jersey. Be prepared with questions! Our panelists will talk about the current issues our NJ legislators are working on to help businesses and residents. Time will be set aside for networking and Q & A.
Includes full buffet breakfast
$20 members; $30 general admission. Preregistration ends on 11/20 at 2 pm.
Limited seating. Additional cost at the door.
Open to the general public!
This program is sponsored by the GWACC Legislative Committee
New medical facility in Westfield. Significant investment. Thank you Dr Carnucci
Leader Bramnick alongside Senator Tom Kean Jr, Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz, and Lt Governor Kim Guadagno at the Cranford Street Fair
Leader Bramnick alongside Mayor Al Morgan and Councilmembers Nadine Geoffrey, Gary Kapner, and Dr Robinson at the New Providence Street Fair
Leader Bramnick on Chasing News to discuss legislation that helps veterans
Leader Bramnick joined with three former Governors on the panel to discuss New Jersey politics and policy hosted by PSEG in Newark
Leader Bramnick holds Q&A, Advises Cranford, New Jersey residents against 750 Walnut
Speaking in Cranford on the need for a legislative solution to stop high density housing imposed by the Courts
Speaking tonight to the New Providence Lions Club. The Club does excellent work in the community
Congrats to the Cranford Fire Department with 125 years of service. Thank you for your service.
Thanking the volunteers in Long Hill at the Millington street fair
Campaigning in Westfield. With Senator Kean, Bramnick, and Munoz
Bramnick campaigning with friends in Berkeley Heights
Bramnick with friends in Warren on the campaign trail
On the campaign trail in Kenilworth
Leader Bramnick will speak this Friday with the Union County Employers Legislative Committee (ELC)
http://www.unioncountyelc.org/
Discussing issues facing New Jersey in Roselle Park
Joining with the leadership in New Providence. Nice day with Dr Bob, Mayor Al, Gary and Nadine
Bramnick lauds passage of Stephen Komninos’ Law
TRENTON, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick (R-Union) released the following statement today after Gov. Christie signed the “Stephen Komninos’ Law” to strengthen protections for people with developmental disabilities. The legislation is named for the 22-year-old who died as a result of abuse and neglect in a local group home for individuals with developmental disabilities:
“No one, especially the vulnerable, should be subjected to the abusive treatment this young man endured. This law will strengthen protections for people with developmental disabilities by requiring more state oversight and transparency.”
Our lawn signs for the District 21 team are in now!
Our team are out and about putting them up throughout the district.
If you would like one, please email us a send us a message on Facebook!
Bramnick Endorsed by non-partisan NEW JOBS PAC for his work to create jobs in New Jersey
WESTFIELD, N.J. – NEW JOBS PAC has announced its endorsement of Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick for reelection in the 21st legislative district.
“I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of NEW JOBS PAC,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “Only by getting the government out of the way can we get the economy back on track and allow the private sector to create jobs. I look forward to working with NEW JOBS in the next year to create an environment where New Jersey businesses can thrive.
The non-partisan NEW JOBS PAC, New Jersey’s largest business political action committee, promotes a pro-business climate in New Jersey by endorsing and supporting legislative candidates who actively support economic growth, the creation of private-sector jobs, and lowering the cost of doing business.
Speaking at the Eagleton Institute
to a great group of students
Leader Bramnick and Lt Governor Kim Guadagno recognizing 50 years of service from a Springfield first responder
Leader Bramnick, Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno, and Committeewoman Geri Ann Bujnowski at the Springfield street fair
Leader Bramnick thanks Tae Hee Han and friends for their support
Joint effort on Amazon demonstrates need for Bramnick bipartisan legislation
TRENTON, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick said yesterday’s announcement that Democrat and Republican leaders in the Assembly and Senate are joining together with the governor to attract Amazon to New Jersey demonstrates that when all the leaders in government work together the state benefits.
“Joint efforts on both sides of the aisle are extremely important to the success of government,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “Our united effort on Amazon is an example of government at its best. We are working together to help provide the shot in the arm our economy needs.
“That is why I previously introduced a bill requiring quarterly meetings with the four legislative leaders and the governor,” Bramnick continued. “Corporations are required to hold board of director meetings. The state should also be required to report to the people. I encourage the public to contact their representatives urging them to support the legislation.”
Bramnick’s bill (A3691) specifically calls for the Senate president and minority leader and the Assembly speaker and minority leader to meet with the governor at least once a quarter of each calendar year to discuss the state of the state, pending legislation, ideas for legislation, public policy issues, and any matter of interest to residents. Following a private session, the meeting will be open to the public where people can ask questions. The leaders will also issue a joint statement highlighting their progress.
LEGISLATIVE LEADERS PLEDGE BIPARTISAN COMMITMENT TO BRING AMAZON’S HQ2 CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS TO NEW JERSEY
“New Jersey is a natural fit for Amazon. We have the real-estate options and competitive incentives to build HQ2, and the talent to fill every job Amazon has to offer. This is a proposal lawmakers on both sides of the aisle can come together on, show unity and help provide the shot in the arm our economy needs.” – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick
Leader Bramnick has been endorsed by the professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey, which represents over 4,000 active and retired firefighters and emergency services personnel in NJ for his support of professional firefighters and their families.
Bramnick endorsed by National Federation of Independent Business for his work protecting small businesses and free enterprise
WESTFIELD, N.J. – The National Federation of Independent Business has announced its endorsement of Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick for reelection in the 21st legislative district.
“I appreciate NFIB’s support and endorsement,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “We need to get our economy back on track and the best way to do that is by getting the government out of the way so small businesses can create jobs. I look forward to working with NFIB next year to bring relief to small businesses across New Jersey and to create an environment where those businesses can thrive.”
NFIB is the nation’s leading advocate for small business owners representing nearly 7,000 members in New Jersey. The group endorses candidates based on their voting record on key small-business issues identified by its members such as health care, taxes, labor and regulatory issues.
Leader Bramnick meets with members of Bernard’s
Twp Board of Education members
Leader Bramnick congratulates new Cranford Eagle Scouts
Leader Bramnick alongside Senator Tom Kean and Councilman Jim Corcoran at Westfield’s Festifall celebrations
Leader Bramnick working alongside Springfield leadership on redevelopment issues
Assemblyman Bramnick joined with former Senator Bagger to support United Fund
Very proud to be part of the opening of the Union County Family Justice Center with Attorney General Porrino, Prosecutor Grace Park and Former Assistant Prosecutor and my daughter in law Ann Marie Bramnick
Assemblyman Bramnick at the Watchung September 11th Memorial
Standing against the forces of evil on September 11th and remembering the victims
Assemblyman Bramnick attends Berkeley Heights 9/11 memorial service
“Americans must stand together against the racists in Charlottesville,” said Leader Bramnick. “There is no place in our society for this form of hate, prejudice and intolerance and we must let them know now.”
All Americans must speak out against these racist groups in Charlottesville. We must stand together against hate and prejudice.
Leader Bramnick joins our Atlantic County candidates
BRAMNICK DEMANDS VOTE BY LEGISLATURE ADDRESSING HIGH-DENSITY HOUSING ISSUE
“The speaker of the General Assembly rejected my request to vote on this important issue on procedural grounds. I will continue to fight to sustain home rule on housing issues as opposed to the courts determining our housing needs.”
Bramnick seeks 60 votes for emergency action to stop court-mandated high-density housing litigation
“I am aggressively moving forward to protect towns and help mayors and councils stop court-mandated high-density housing by urging my colleagues to pass Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi’s legislative solution,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “With every passing day municipalities are incurring unrecoverable expense from these unnecessary lawsuits. This is a bi-partisan issue that has dire consequences. The legislature should take action now.”
Leader Bramnick calls upon Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto to add to our July 31st agenda court imposed housing. Let’s return decisions on housing to local communities.
Nothing better than a race with my granddaughter and……. the winner is my granddaughter.
I came in a close 2nd
Assemblyman Bramnick supports government workers who lost pay during the 2017 NJ government shutdown
and will introduce a bill to reduce legislators salary by $1000 as a penalty
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick Urges State Legislature to Solve Affordable Housing Issues
During NJTV interview Bramnick says compromise would have avoided government shutdown
Assemblyman Bramnick calls for emergency legislative session to oppose high density housing mandated by courts
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick is calling for the state Legislature to return back to Trenton for a special session to address affordable housing.
“Towns are fighting high density housing lawsuits because the legislature will not compromise on a plan,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “The legislature should not go to summer vacation without solving this issue.”
Bramnick: Lawmakers should be fined for government shutdown
TRENTON, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick is calling for a new law that would fine state lawmakers $250 a day for failing to meet the annual budget deadline, which forces a government shutdown. He plans to draft the legislation today.
“When there is no budget and no compromise, lawmakers should pay a penalty,” said Assemblyman Bramnick (R-Union). “When residents are penalized by a government shutdown, legislators should also be penalized for failing to agree on how to meet the financial obligations of the state.”
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick and Joe Piscopo raising money for Union County College
NJ task force has to-do list for colleges on curbing sex assaults.
Leader Jon Bramnick is proud to stand with outstanding and creative students who won the international Odyssey of the Mind World competition
Bramnick standing with those who support the arts in the State Capital
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick was very pleased to join with Speaker Prieto to denounce hate speech and violence.
Bramnick thanks volunteers at Literacy New Jersey
Prieto & Bramnick to Discuss Civility and Violence
Trenton, N.J. – Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto and Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick will hold a joint Friday news conference to discuss civility and violence. The press conference is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, June 16 in Room 109 of the Statehouse.
In 2005 Bramnick introduced a resolution calling for civility
Bramnick in Mountainside to share in Eagle Scout ceremony
Roselle Park Republican family BBQ
Bramnick speaks to Girl Scouts in Westfield who have been awarded the Gold and Silver awards.
Bramnick joins legislators in Atlantic City to discuss legislative priorities at State Bar Association.
Assembly Leader Jon Bramnick honored young heros Andrew Zimmer and Emma Reedman of Watchung Hills Regional HS on the Assembly Floor in Trenton today. Andrew Zimmer and Emma Reedman performed lifesaving CPR on a fellow student in an emergency.
In the Governor’s Outer Office, Assemblyman Jon Bramnick thanked former Chief Council Thomas Scrivo for his service to the State on Thursday, March 16th, 2017.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick spoke at the Somerset County Republican Convention in Bridgewater, NJ on March 7th, where he received the county’s Republican endorsement.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick at the Summit Republican Convention this morning in Summit, NJ. Senator Kean and Assemblywomen Muñoz were also in attendance.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick was on Power and Politics Thursday afternoon on March 2nd.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick attended the bill signing of A-3, a bill he sponsored, this afternoon with Governor Chris Christie.
A-3 eliminates pre-authorizations for covering inpatient or outpatient substance abuse treatment for up to six months; limits initial prescriptions for opioid medications to five days, and requires doctors to discuss the dangers of opioid addiction with patients.
“No one with health insurance should be denied coverage when seeking assistance for a drug addiction,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “People reaching out for help need immediate assistance. The do not have the luxury of waiting weeks for an insurance carrier to decide if their treatment is eligible for coverage. Drug overdose deaths have risen by double digits in New Jersey. This is a serious problem that demands action now.”
Warren Mayor Garafola inducted into Elected Officials Hall of Fame
Bramnick honors students and first responders for saving student’s life
Student saved with defibrillator provided by Janet’s Law
WARREN TWP, N.J. – Warren Township residents Karen and Jim Zilinski and Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick worked for six years to get lifesaving defibrillators into every school. Janet’s Law was passed and signed by Gov. Chris Christie in 2012 in memory of the tragic loss of the Zilinski’s 11-year old daughter who collapsed at a cheerleading practice and passed-away in 2006.
At the Warren Township Board of Education meeting last night, it was revealed that another child from Janet’s school was saved by two students who performed CPR and used a defibrillator.
“We were successful and 16 lives have been saved since the law was passed,” said Bramnick (R-Union) whose 21st Legislative District includes Warren Township. “The quick thinking of those students saved yet another life. I want to thank the Zilinski family for their tireless efforts in passing a law that has saved lives. I’m proud to have worked with them.”
Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick at the Warren Board of Education
GOP Leaders Call for Action on Pressing Issues Facing New Jersey
Trenton, N.J. – Assembly GOP Leader Jon Bramnick and Assembly GOP Whip Anthony Bucco implored Democrats today to fix major issues facing the state. After having a majority in the Assembly for 15 years, the same problems – property taxes, school funding, affordable housing – have only gotten worse.
“We’ve had Watergate. We’ve had Bridgegate. Now we have Democrats who should be investigated for Do Nothing-gate,” said Bramnick (R-Union).
“The majority party has lost focus on what’s really important to New Jersey and our constituents,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “Clearly the biggest issue we face here in New Jersey is affordability.”
Panel advances Bramnick bill creating diversion program for veterans with special circumstances
TRENTON, N.J. – Legislation (A-4362/S-307) sponsored by Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick, creating a statewide veteran’s diversion program that ensures a veteran’s special circumstances are taken into account following an arrest, was approved today by the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The vote was 5-0-1.
“Incarcerating a veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress or any mental health illness serves no purpose,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “Men and women who serve our nation with honor deserve a chance to get the help they need. This bill is a common sense alternative to the traditional criminal justice process for eligible veterans.”
Under the program, a veteran who has committed a crime or has been previously diagnosed with a service-related mental illness may be diverted away from the criminal justice system and into appropriate case management and mental health services.
Prosecutors will determine eligibility for the program by considering the relationship between the mental illness and the offense.
The bill also establishes a veterans diversion resource center in each county. The centers will provide screening, counseling and treatment to eligible service members and are required to provide law enforcement officials with status reports regarding participation and recovery progress.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick swore in Councilman David Karner of Far Hills on Monday, January 9th at the Far Hills Organizational Meeting.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick joined the Governor and Senators at the State House in Trenton for the signing of the bill supporting bail reform on Monday, January 9th.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick swore in reelected Committeewoman Mary O’Connor tonight at the Cranford Organizational meeting.
Assemblyman Republican Leader Jon Bramnick swore in Berkeley Heights Councilman Peter Bavoso at the New Years Re-organizational meeting.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick attending the swearing in of newly elected Scotch Plains Mayor Al Smith. The oath was administered by Congressman Leonard Lance and also attended by former New Jersey Governor Don DiFrancesco.
NJ 2-1-1 can help you find solutions to personal needs by informing you of resources in your community like day care facilities, shelters, affordable housing units, social services, employment training programs, senior services, medical insurance, and more. Learn about their resource database, call center and website by going to www.nj211.org or calling / texting 211.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick participated in a panel discussion, hosted by The Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, about the business environment in New Jersey at Shackamazon County Club on Monday, November 14th.
We all remember the difficult days after Sandy. Four years ago.
Comedians Meet! Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick on the legislature floor today with comedian Joe Piscopo.
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick shaking hands with Captain Colin Scherp, Bryce Rooks, Jayson Schmitt and Justin Drews of Warren Hills Pop Warner football this past Sunday. The team wore pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Bramnick: calls on Democrats to submit funding proposal fair for all towns
Westfield, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick (R-Union) released the following statement today challenging Democrat’s to submit a proposal to make school funding more fair.
“Governor Christie and many Republicans have supported changing how we fund schools. The Democrats may disagree with us that each student should receive $6,599, but they remain silent on any change. We are all aware that lowering property taxes must start with changing the school funding formula.
I call upon my friends across the aisle to submit a proposal to make school funding more fair to all towns.”
Bramnick calls for law enforcement to focus on texting and driving offenses
Westfield, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick called on law enforcement today to focus on texting and driving.
“Texting and driving is reaching epidemic levels and is a major cause of accidents,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “I call on law enforcement to focus on this offense to better protect the public.”
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick attended the bill signing of S-1923, prohibiting the investment of state pension and annuity funds by the State in companies that boycott goods, products or businesses of Israel, at the State House in Trenton yesterday.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick at the Madison Republican Committee Meeting last week at Villa Rose Wine School in Madison, NJ.
Assembly Minor Leader Jon Bramnick attends the Assembly Republican Victory Breakfast at the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.
Assembly Minor Leader Jon Bramnick attends Career Day at New Providence Middle School with members of the New Providence Career Day Committee. See the full article from TAPinto here:
Bramnick calls for standing cybersecurity committee
TRENTON, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick today called for a standing legislative committee on cybercrime and cybersecurity. The committee would focus on laws and policies aimed at protecting New Jersey’s businesses, local government and citizens.
“Computer viruses, hackers and other technology-related incidents affect our lives in ways that range from inconvenient to life-threatening,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “As our dependence on data networks increases, cybercriminals find new opportunities to exploit people. A standing committee focused on these constant changes would help the state better protect the public.”
Cyberattacks are an increasing threat in New Jersey:
– Four Atlantic City online casino gaming sites were targeted by a hacker last July, who promised further disruption unless a ransom was paid in Bitcoin.
– Hackers crippled Rutgers University computer networks at least four times in 2014 and 2015.
– Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey notified nearly 840,000 members in 2013 that their personal information may have been compromised after laptops were stolen from the company’s Newark headquarters.
– In April 2015, the international activist group Anonymous shut down several law-enforcement sites and released the names, home addresses and phone numbers of police officers after the death of a Vineland resident who died while in police custody.
The 2015 annual report by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center found that New Jersey suffered the 8th highest number of cyberattacks of any state, which accounts for the 9th largest financial loss in the country.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick delivering the keynote address at the Kean University symposium on ransomware and cybersecurity. Kean University STEM Building, Union, NJ.
Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick congratulates newly appointed Attorney General Chris Porrino.
“The state is extremely fortunate that the governor has selected an outstanding lawyer with extensive experience in the private and public sectors. Both sides of the political aisle respect Chris because of his integrity and humanity. Common sense and fairness are his trademarks.”
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick honors Darrel E. Bethea for his two decades of service as the proprietor of Sweet Heaven in the New Jersey State House.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick tours Port Elizabeth to review Homeland Security and the importance of the Port to the New Jersey Economy.
Bramnick: Watch out for fake IRS callers
WESTFIELD, N.J. –Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick has received reports of attempted fraud by people impersonating IRS investigators. Scammers, claiming to be from the IRS, make unsolicited called demanding payment for fake tax bills to get cash, usually through a debit bard or wire transfer from their victims.
“No other scam has continued to persist as long as the IRS scam,” said Bramnick (R-Union). “Don’t be fooled. The IRS would never call about taxes owed without first having mailed you a bill, nor would it ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. If you get one of these surprising phone calls, hand up and report it to authorities immediately.”
The IRS’s website suggest reporting incidents to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml or by calling 800-366-4484.
Bramnick receiving the state’s highest arts education honor, the Governor’s Award for Lifetime Contribution in Arts Education at the War Memorial Auditorium in Trenton.
Leader Bramnick to Receive NJ’s Highest Arts Education Award Today – The Governor’s Award for Lifetime Contribution in Arts Education
TRENTON, N.J. – Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick has been selected as a recipient of the Governor’s Award for Lifetime Contribution in Arts Education for his efforts in promoting the importance of the arts in New Jersey’s school system. The award is presented by the New Jersey Arts Education Partnership.
Bramnick, R-Union, will receive the award during a 4:30 p.m. ceremony held in Patriots Theater at the Trenton War Memorial on Thursday, May 26. The event is a partnership of the New Jersey Arts Education Partnership, the Department of Education, Art Pride New Jersey Foundation, the Department of State and the N.J. State Council on the Arts.
Bramnick sponsored the law signed by Gov. Christie in January that requires school districts to weigh visual and performing arts courses equally to other subjects. The classes now receive the same level of importance in determining a student’s grade point average (GPA).
Bramnick speaking on a panel at the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting and Convention in Atlantic City, NJ.
Bramnick with Berkeley Heights Candidates Manuel Couto and Peter Bavoso at the Berkeley Heights Republican Municipal Committee’s Meet the Candidates Social.
Bramnick speaking with News12NJ before the Assembly voting session.
Bramnick speaking to a political science class at Seton Hall University.
Bramnick speaking to the Morris County Young Republicans in Denville, NJ.
Bramnick on Fox Business News discussing N.J.’s business tax climate and billionaire David Tepper move to Florida.
Bramnick speaking to attendees at his Echo Lake fundraiser in Westfield, NJ.
Bramnick at the ribbon-cutting ceremony of GSK Consumer Healthcare’s new North America corporate headquarters in Warren, NJ.
Bramnick speaking with District 36 Republicans in Wood-Ridge, NJ.
Bramnick with Governor Christie at HelloFresh in Linden, NJ.
Bramnick with Assemblyman Declan O’Scanlon at St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Red Bank, NJ.
Bramnick at Suburban Chamber of Commerce Awards in Summit, NJ.
Bramnick and Speaker Prieto at Morris County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Luncheon in Florham Park, NJ.
Bramnick speaking to the Radiological Society of NJ.
Bramnick filming Chasing News.
Honoring the Westfield Blue Devils 2015 NJ State Championship football team (North 2, Group 5).
Honoring the Cranford Cougars 2015 NJ State Championship football team (North 2, Group 3).
Speaking at the ARV Kickoff Breakfast at the NJ State Museum in Trenton.
Speaking at the Gateway Chamber’s 104th Annual Awards Dinner in Elizabeth, NJ.
Speaking at Assemblyman Sean Kean’s Salute the Winners Event in Spring Lake, NJ.
Assemblymen Bramnick and Caputo recognize outstanding teacher David Shallcross at Bloomfield Tech in Bloomfield, NJ.
At the General Assembly Reorganizational Ceremony at the Patriots’ Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton, NJ.
Closing day at Robert Treat in Westfield.
Testifying before the Assembly Judiciary Committee regarding redistricting plan.
Swearing in Springfield Committee member Maria Vassallo.
Congratulating Councilman Bill Lane for 15 years of outstanding service to Mountainside.
Speaking before the Cranford Township Committee at the annual Reorganization meeting.
At the Long Hill Reorganization meeting after swearing in reelected Mayor Brendan Rae and reelected Committeeman Guy Piserchia.
At the Berkeley Heights Reorganization meeting with Mayor and Council members.
Swearing in reelected Councilwoman Debra Joren in Watchung, NJ.
Speaking before the Southern New Jersey Development Council in Galloway Township, NJ.
At the Legislative Leaders Panel at the NJBIA Public Policy Forum in East Windsor, NJ.
Interview with Steve Adubato discussing issues facing New Jersey before the NJBIA Public Policy Forum in East Windsor, NJ.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick speaks at unveiling of Alex DeCroce Memorial Highway in Parsippany, NJ.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick speaks at the Veterans Day Breakfast at the Cranford VFW.
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick talks about the upcoming Assembly elections on NJ Power & Politics.
Bramnick at the Far Hill Races.
Bramnick to Serve as Keynote Speaker at CONTACT We Care Gala
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick will be the keynote speaker at the CONTACT We Care “40th Anniversary Call of Hope Gala” at the Gran Centurions in Clark, N.J., on Thursday, October 22. CONTACT We Care is a volunteer organization that provides a crisis hotline for people in emotional distress.
The event, titled “40th Anniversary Call of Hope Gala – Listening with Heart: Celebrating our Past, Present and Future,” begins with a 6 p.m. cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The program, featuring Bramnick, begins at 8 p.m. For more information, call 908-301-1899.
CONTACT We Care is an award-winning, volunteer-staffed caring and crisis hotline serving Central and Northern New Jersey. It is also a responder within New Jersey to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Staff responds to people in need via phone and texting. They handle more than 15,000 calls/texts per year. The group also offers training in mental health care and suicide prevention.
Bramnick Performs Comedy For Fundraiser
Last evening at Vinnie Brand’s Stress Factory in New Brunswick, Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick performed comedy at a fundraiser for LD18 Assembly candidates Synnove Bakke and Teresa Rose Hutchison.
Bramnick opened after remarks by the candidates followed by a performance by Vinnie Brand himself.
In the aftermath of a news report concerning alleged homophobic comments made by U.S. Rep. Scott Garrett (R-5), Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick (R-21) contributed $5,000 today to the LD34 campaign of Passaic County GOP Chairman John Traier.
Stung by the report, Traier is openly gay.
“I want to make a clear and convincing statement,” Bramnick told PolitickerNJ. “I won’t stand for any discrimination. Period. And I’m going to sponsor a fundraiser for him.”
N.J. Assembly Republicans promise aggressive challenge to Democrats in November
Matt Friedman, NJ Advance Media
June 03, 2015
TRENTON — With the primaries over and the general election season upon us, state Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick has a big challenge.
Bramnick (R-Union) wants to be Assembly speaker. That means in November — when all 80 Assembly seats at the top of the ballot — he’ll need to flip at least nine Democratic-held seats to win Republicans a majority in the lower house for the first time since Democrats took over in 2002.
He’ll have to do that in what’s expected to be a low-turnout election in a state with 700,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans. With a legislative district map that was drawn by Democrats, and with a Republican governor who will likely be mounting a GOP presidential primary bid and whose New Jersey approval rating — at least right now — is in the 30s. Not to mention Democrats’ two-to-one fundraising advantage.
But Bramnick says he’s up to the challenge.
“I’m going to be very, very aggressive as to the failures of the Democratic Legislature,” he said. “I’m going need a little help from (the media) pointing out that they’ve been in charge for 13 years. That’s the only request I make.”
Bramnick Officially Kicks Off Campaign for Republican Majority
With over 150 local supporters this morning, Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick officially launched the Assembly Republicans’ campaign for a majority in next legislature. The day began with a kick-off rally in Bergen County with Bergen GOP Chairman Robert Yudin and Republican Assembly members: David Rible, Scott Rumana, Anthony Bucco, Nancy Munoz, Caroline Casagrande, Jack Ciattarelli, Holly Schepisi, Jay Webber and Robert Auth.
“The people of New Jersey want more jobs and less taxes. Assembly Republicans are the team that can deliver. Assembly Democrats have had over a decade to provide tax relief, but the opposite happened: taxes have gone up,” said Bramnick.
The Republican members then took the kick-off to Hudson County with Hudson GOP Chairman Jose Arango. The Assembly Republicans first visited a number of Hispanic-American owned small businesses in West New York.
“In West New York we saw great community businesses that serve their close-knit neighborhood well. But we hear from them that things should be easier in New Jersey,” said Bramnick. “Making it easier for local small businesses to thrive is key to a stronger New Jersey.”
The Assembly Republicans ended the day in Jersey City with community leaders and local Republicans.
“We are taking the campaign to every corner of the state. Our message resonates with every voter in New Jersey. Republicans are the party of cutting waste, lowering taxes and creating jobs. That is what the campaign for the Assembly is about,” said Bramnick, concluding the day’s events.
Bramnick said he looks forward to traveling around the state throughout the year bringing the Assembly Republicans message of more jobs and less taxes to the people of New Jersey.
