Toms River, New Jersey Nov 7, 2024 (Issuewire.com) - With early voting now closed, New Jersey Republicans have turned out in record numbers, setting the stage for an energized Election Day on Tuesday. This turnout, however, is not driven by fringe groups or radical events; rather, it reflects the tireless work of New Jerseys Republican county committees, local clubs, county organizations, elected officials, and committed GOP members. Across the state, Republicans have spent months mobilizing support for Donald Trump and all Republican candidates, reinforcing a shared vision for a better future.
Ocean County stands as a notable example of this grassroots movement in action. Throughout New Jersey, from local GOP clubs to county committees, Republicans have been active for months, working diligently to engage voters and uphold conservative values. Ocean County GOP chairman George Gilmore recently emphasized the importance of unity in achieving Republican goals, stating, For the good of the party, for the good of President Trump, and for the good of all Republicans on the ballot in 2024, we need to be unified in our support of our candidates this year. Gilmores words reflect the perspective of many New Jersey Republicans, who see unity as essential to overcoming the Democratic registration advantage in the state.
Real Republican Efforts vs. Distracting Radical Groups
In contrast, groups like the America First Republicans of New Jersey (AFRNJ), led by Mike Crispi, have hosted a series of publicized events which, despite their hype, often lack broad community support. Attendees at these events are primarily Crispis own circle of associates, leaving a small, insular crowd that fails to represent the wider Republican base in New Jersey. Rather than uniting Republicans, critics say these gatherings serve to distract from the real work being done by GOP committees, clubs, and volunteers.
As Morris County GOP Chair Laura Ali stated, small fringe radicals of our party claim they stand for Republican principles, but really dont. Many Republicans see AFRNJ as diverting attention from the partys broader goal of unity in a heavily Democratic state. For New Jersey Republicans focused on Election Day, the emphasis remains on coalition-building, not isolated events with limited impact.
Adding to the controversy surrounding AFRNJ are questions about their financial practices. Operating as a DBA of the Montclair Republican County Committee, AFRNJs funding sources and expenditures have recently come under scrutiny. The group has reportedly been using county committee funds to sponsor events, raising questions among party members about transparency and accountability. Additionally, AFRNJ received a $10,000 contribution from the super PAC Kitchen Table Conservatives, a donation that was later requested to be returned after the groups true affiliations became more apparent. These concerns, say critics, only underscore the importance of focusing on unity and transparency in building a strong Republican base.
The Power of Supporting Republicans, Even Amid Differences
Fringe leaders like Mike Crispi, some Republicans say, are hesitant to respectfully disagree with fellow Republicans while still supporting them. For the first time in decades, New Jersey has a genuine chance to win a Senate seat with Curtis Bashaw, but some factions within the party are choosing to focus on minor ideological differences. Despite agreeing with 97% of Bashaws platform, Crispi and AFRNJ have withheld their support over a small percentage of disagreement. Many Republicans argue that this approach promotes division rather than unity at a time when the party should be standing together.
Republicans are encouraging a broader perspective, citing former President of the United States Donald Trump as an example. Trump, once a registered Democrat who later aligned as a Republican, has shown the ability to find common ground with figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on shared goals, even if they dont align on everything. Trumps ability to build coalitions resonates with those who value uniting over dividing. According to New Jersey Republicans, embracing this approach can lead to the success they seek, allowing shared values to take precedence over minor differences.
Failed Democratic Policies Fuel Republican Momentum
The Republican turnout is also viewed as a response to the policies of the Biden-Harris administration and Democratic leadership in Trenton. Many New Jersey residents feel the impact of rising inflation, higher gas prices, and increased economic strain under these policies. Republicans argue that Governor Murphys administration mirrors the agenda in Washington, further pushing New Jersey toward financial hardship and regulatory overreach. From high taxes to escalating living costs, Republicans claim that New Jerseyans are experiencing firsthand the consequences of unchecked Democratic policies.
Adding to these concerns is the impact of an unprecedented influx of illegal immigrants into local communities, which has strained resources in towns across New Jersey. In Brick Township, for example, the local school system has seen a significant increase in non-English-speaking students due to the influx of immigrant families. According to Brick GOP President Ruthanne Scatturro, in 2020, the district had fewer than 100 non-English-speaking students. Today, that number has ballooned to over 700 students, speaking more than 18 different languages, with inadequate funding to support the added educational needs. Scatturro and other local GOP leaders argue that the Biden administrations immigration policies have created an unmanageable situation, affecting everything from classroom resources to local budgets.
Trumps Platform for Change
In response, New Jersey Republicans are rallying behind Trumps 2024 campaign. His platform, which addresses core issues facing New Jerseyans, has given many voters renewed hope. According to his campaign, Trumps priorities include:
Securing the border to reduce illegal immigration and protect local communities.
Ending inflation by curbing government spending and promoting growth-oriented policies.
Achieving energy independence to lower gas prices and protect the U.S. economy.
Ending reckless wars and building strength for peace to ensure both national security and global stability.
Cutting taxes, including eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, to support working families and retirees.
Strengthening the military to maintain peace and security, both at home and abroad.
These promises are resonating with working-class voters, families, and former Democrats, who, according to Republicans, are feeling the strain of current policies. For many New Jerseyans, this election offers a clear choice for a more stable and prosperous future.
Trumps Broad Appeal Across Communities
Trumps campaign has noted growing support across a variety of communities, including Hispanic, Black, Asian, Jewish, and Muslim voters. Trumps appeal to these groups, campaign officials say, stems from his focus on economic stability, job creation, and tax relief, along with his commitment to ending wars and maintaining peace. This focus on economic freedom and stability resonates deeply, especially with working-class voters from diverse backgrounds who are disillusioned with the direction of the Democratic Party. Many Black and Latino voters, for example, are drawn to his economic policies, while Asian, Jewish, and Muslim communities increasingly see the benefits of his stance on both domestic and international peace and security.
Some Republicans also see Trumps background as a former Democrat as an asset, bridging divides and broadening his appeal. Figures like J.D. Vance, Elon Musk, RFK Jr., and Tulsi Gabbard, all former Democrats, have joined Trumps cause, underscoring his ability to build a coalitionthat spans political backgrounds and reaches disaffected voters who resonate with his message of economic stability and peace.
The True Power of New Jerseys GOP
As George Gilmore emphasized, Ocean County provided President Trump with the second-largest plurality of any county in the entire country in 2016. We need to be working as hard as we can for ALL of our candidates in 2024. This sentiment is driving New Jersey Republicans statewide. The historic early voting turnout is not the result of fringe voices but of the dedication shown by GOP members across New Jersey, from county committees to local clubs, county organizations, elected officials, and engaged citizens.
As Election Day arrives, New Jersey Republicans stand united in their aim to reclaim the state from policies that, they argue, have not served the people. This election reflects the strength of New Jerseys GOP and the tireless work of thousands of Republicans who have mobilized voters in recent months. The record turnout is seen as proof that New Jerseys GOP is here, unified, and ready to advocate for the changes they believe are needed for both state and nation.
According to many New Jersey Republicans, this election could mark a pivotal point. United by shared values, they feel this years turnout reflects the power of dedication and teamwork. For them, this election is not about radical groups, its about real Republicans coming together to answer Trumps call to action, striving for a future that they believe can be brighter and stronger for all.
Source :The Red Shore Report
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