As we approach the June 10 primary election, there are many important issues to consider. This Primary represents a crucial opportunity for us to come together and choose leaders who will stand firm on their principles and work tirelessly for the betterment of our communities in this year’s elections. As a voter, you should support candidates who mostly align with your principles and values.
In Mercer County, there is an important New Jersey Gubernatorial race in which several strong Republican candidates are running including Jack Ciattarelli, Bill Spadea, Jon Bramnick, Justin Barbera and Mario Kranjic. The Democrats also have a full slate running for governor, making it even more important this year to vote in the Republican primary, ensuring Republicans have the strongest candidate to face-off against the Democrats in November. There are also many excellent candidates running in State, County and Municipal elections. While there are no competitive Republican primaries in the local races for Mercer County, it is still important to vote in the Primary to show your support to help lead them to victory in November.
Republican candidates are dedicated individuals who embody the values of fiscal responsibility, transparency in government, and security. Candidates understand the unique challenges and opportunities that face Mercer County and are prepared to address them with innovative solutions and steadfast leadership.
As you prepare to cast your vote in June’s Primary, along with November’s general election, I encourage you to consider the following key issues in making your selection.
Taxes / Affordability – Taxes continually rise in New Jersey, Mercer County, and municipalities. New Jersey is becoming increasingly unaffordable to live in. New Jersey government needs to become more efficient and stop wasting taxpayers’ money! New Jersey taxpayers are overwhelmed by the ever-increasing tax burden of income tax, sales tax, property tax, school tax, municipal and county tax, gas tax, to name just a few.
Energy prices will see a significant increase as recently authorized by the Democrat governor. High business taxes and overregulation limit the growth of new businesses in New Jersey. A more reasonable tax system will lead to increased affordability for living in New Jersey.
Community / Safety – New Jersey needs to be a safe place to live and raise a family. Legal immigration with diverse people entering is what makes America and New Jersey great. Being a sanctuary state and not cooperating with Federal law enforcement makes New Jersey more dangerous by letting criminals and drug cartel members stay in the state, making our communities less safe. Illegal immigration also increases many expenses including the cost to run our schools paid by taxpayers and increased demand for housing increasing the cost to purchase or rent a home.
One party rule – Most of Mercer County and Municipal governments are controlled by one-party: the Democrat party. Single party dominating leads to a lack of transparency and lack of responsiveness. Without having members of an opposite party, there is little incentive to have open, public, and transparent discussions on issues. Having members of all parties involved in our government, forces an openness of discussion in a public forum allowing for multiple ideas to flow. This openness and transparency can lead to the best outcomes for the residents.
In consideration for your vote, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you happy with the high taxes and affordability of New Jersey?
- Are you happy with the safety in your community?
- Are you happy with the quality of education provided to the children, education cost and funding formulas decided by those in Trenton?
- Are you happy with the performance of the MVC, especially with need to for Real ID?
- Are you happy with over 20 years of Democrat party rule of Mercer County?
- If you are ready for a change, you should vote Republican in 2025.
I urge you to engage with the candidates, learn about their platforms, and make an informed decision when you vote. Your involvement and support are crucial in driving the change we wish to see in our community. A more informed voter is critical to the workings of a successful democracy.
Continue keeping yourself informed and remember to vote on June 10!
To learn more visit Mercer County Republican website at www.mercernjgop.com.
Winthrop Cody was born in Connecticut, graduating from Massachusetts Institute of Technology for his bachelor’s degree and receiving his MBA from University of Connecticut. Winthrop worked at Travelers Insurance in technology and then moved to New Jersey to become Senior VP, Chief Information Officer, for Travelers/Citigroup’s retirement division. Winthrop founded a startup firm in Mercer County, ExpertPlan, providing retirement plan technology services. Winthrop provides consulting service after ExpertPlan was sold. Winthrop lived in Cranbury, NJ, raising two daughters, where he served as Mayor. Winthrop’s oldest daughter tragically passed away at 16 and his family started the Helene Cody Foundation which sponsors the annual Helene Cody Cranbury 5K. Winthrop currently lives in Hamilton and is Chair of Mercer County Republican Capital Club and Vice-Chair of Hamilton Republican Committee.