Why Sharpe James needs a campaign war chest is beyond me. The former Newark mayor and state senator was convicted on corruption charges, but continues to control thousands that he can use to influence people still in office.
Assemblyman Ronald Dancer (R-Ocean) thinks it’s “beyond absurd,” and he wants the state to end the practice. He’s introduced legislation that would require “any candidate convicted of crimes or offenses to return campaign contributions to donors” and would freeze “most campaign funds of candidates indicted for crimes or offenses.” Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo (D-Mercer) is the co-sponsor.
“Allowing them to spread their influence from inside a prison is unconscionable. It’s no wonder the public has lost confidence in its elected officials. This legislation is needed to put an end to this reprehensible practice.”
These campaign funds contribute to the culture of corruption that plagues government at all levels on the state. Campaign money should be viewed, in its most naked form, as a legal system of bribery. Contributors buy access with donations, and often expect — and get — much more.
Campaign funds like those held by James are about power and favors, with James and others — everyone from Tom Kean Jr., Sheila Oliver and even the governor — wielding the cash to reward friends and punish enemies.
The bipartisan nature of the problem requires a bipartisan solution. This bill is a good start.
Hank Kalet 