NJ Elections Voters Guide: 5th Legislative District

New Jersey’s 5th Legislative District lies along the Delaware River, across from Philadelphia. Based in Camden, it also encompasses Audubon, Barrington, Bellmawr, Brooklawn, Collingswood, Gloucester City, Haddon Heights, Merchantville, Mount Ephraim, Pennsauken, Runnemede and Woodlynne in Camden County and Deptford, Woodbury and Woodbury Heights in Gloucester County.
The 5th district long has been a Democratic stronghold and the party currently holds all three seats. More than 48% of registered voters are Democrats, compared to 14% Republicans. Nearly all the rest are not affiliated with either party.
Sen. Nilsa Cruz-Perez, a Democrat who first joined the Senate in 2014 after filling a vacancy, was born in Puerto Rico and is a veteran of the U.S. Army. She faces a challenge from Republican Clyde E. Cook, a Gloucester City man who has run unsuccessfully before. Also running as an independent is Mohammad Kabir of Bellmawr under the slogan, “Rights Tranquility Peace.”
The Assembly incumbent Democrats seeking re-election are William Moen Jr., a resident of Camden who formerly served on what was then known as the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders, and William Spearman, a compliance officer at the South Jersey Transportation Authority and a Camden County Improvement Authority commissioner. The Republicans opposing them are Joe Miller, an Audubon man who works in real estate, and Yalinda Pagán, a childcare provider at Cadence Academy living in Camden.
Editor’s note: All candidates for state legislative seats were contacted multiple times for the NJ Decides 2023 voting guide Q&As. Click on a candidate to see who responded and any answers provided. More information about the project, including the full text of the questions, is available.
The candidates
SENATE
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The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
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ASSEMBLY
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Age 27 Hometown: Haddon Heights Occupation: Realtor Personal background: Joe Miller, a native of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, has a strong background in political science and sociology, having graduated from Baptist Regional High School and the University of Maine in Orono. Joe’s dedication to public service is evident through his election to the school board in Audubon, New Jersey, in 2020. Furthermore, his commitment to education extends beyond his local community, as he has also represented Camden County on the New Jersey School Boards Association Board of Directors. Joe’s journey exemplifies his passion for community involvement and his dedication to making a positive impact on education in his region. Currently, Joe works as a Realtor with Keller Williams, combining his community-oriented spirit with his expertise in real estate. Additionally, he is an active member of his local Rotary chapter, further demonstrating his commitment to service and community engagement. Political background: Joe Miller’s political background is a testament to his unwavering commitment to civic engagement and public service. During his time at the University of Maine, where he earned a degree in political science with a minor in sociology, Joe was not only a dedicated student but also actively involved in shaping campus life. He served as a senator on the student government and has continued to pursue his passion for politics. Currently, he holds the position of chairman of the Camden County Young Republicans, a role that showcases his leadership and dedication to advancing conservative ideals within his community. Joe’s journey, from his student government days to his current leadership in the Young Republicans, highlights his enduring commitment to political engagement and his active role in shaping the future of his region. Why are you running for office? Joe Miller has stepped up as a dedicated candidate for the New Jersey State Assembly in the 5th Legislative District, driven by a passionate desire to ensure that the voices of the voters are heard. He’s grown tired of unanswered questions, unfulfilled promises and rising taxes. Joe’s campaign is rooted in a commitment to transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility. His aim is to represent the concerns and aspirations of his constituents, striving for a government that truly serves the people and addresses their needs. With a firm resolve to bring about positive change, Joe Miller’s candidacy symbolizes his determination to create a better future for the community he cares deeply about. Key election issue: Joe Miller’s campaign for the New Jersey State Assembly in the 5th Legislative District centers on the crucial issue of parental choice and involvement in their child’s education. Joe firmly believes that parents should have a direct and meaningful role in shaping their children’s educational journeys. He advocates for policies that empower parents to make informed decisions about their child’s schooling, whether it’s choosing the right school for their needs or having a voice in curriculum decisions. Joe’s commitment to parental choice and involvement underscores his dedication to strengthening the connection between families and education, ensuring that parents have the tools and opportunities to actively participate in their children’s educational development. To address the issue of parental choice and say in education, Joe Miller proposes a multifaceted approach. First, he advocates for expanding school choice options, including charter schools, vouchers and homeschooling, giving parents the freedom to select the educational path that aligns best with their child’s needs. Second, Joe supports increased transparency and communication between schools and parents, ensuring that families have access to comprehensive information about curriculum choices, school performance and extracurricular activities. Additionally, he aims to establish regular forums and feedback mechanisms where parents can voice their concerns and ideas about their child’s education. Joe’s solutions prioritize the vital role parents play in their children’s learning journey and seek to create an educational system that is more responsive and accountable to the needs and desires of the families it serves. Example of a successful project: During his tenure as a school board member in the Audubon Public School District, Joe Miller spearheaded a highly successful grade and score conversion project that significantly streamlined the process for students transferring into the district. This project was a game-changer, as it ensured that students’ grades from their previous schools seamlessly correlated with Audubon’s grading system. Joe’s leadership and dedication to this initiative not only simplified administrative procedures but also alleviated the stress that often accompanies transferring schools, enabling students to transition more smoothly into the district. His visionary approach exemplifies his commitment to enhancing the educational experience and creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all students in Audubon. Example of a challenge faced: Joe Miller faces the unique challenge of being a young candidate running for office, but he’s turning this challenge into an asset. While his age may raise questions for some, Joe leverages his fresh perspective, boundless energy and innovative ideas to connect with a new generation of voters. He demonstrates that youth can bring a valuable, forward-thinking approach to politics, unburdened by traditional paradigms. Joe’s ability to engage with diverse age groups, coupled with his commitment to his community and his impressive track record, showcases his determination and capacity to overcome age-related concerns. He inspires confidence by proving that age is no obstacle when passion, dedication and a vision for a better future drive his candidacy. On NJ’s gun laws: Joe Miller is committed to crafting more equitable gun laws in New Jersey that strike a balance between responsible gun ownership and safety. He firmly believes that responsible gun owners should have access to the tools and knowledge necessary to ensure safe firearm usage. Joe advocates for robust firearm safety education programs, emphasizing responsible handling and storage. He also understands that overly restrictive laws can inadvertently make it easier for criminals to obtain firearms, as they often bypass legal channels. Joe’s approach focuses on sensible legislation that safeguards the rights of responsible gun owners while addressing the root causes of gun violence through education and comprehensive solutions, ultimately creating a safer environment for all New Jersey residents. On the Murphy administration’s climate change proposals: Joe Miller is a strong advocate for environmentally friendly initiatives and the transition to “go green.” He recognizes the importance of sustainable practices in preserving our planet for future generations. However, Joe also understands the critical need for responsible research and assessment when it comes to certain projects, such as offshore wind. While renewable energy sources like offshore wind hold great potential for reducing carbon emissions, he believes that a thorough examination of their impact on wildlife is essential. Joe’s stance underscores the necessity of balancing environmental progress with a commitment to protecting our natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that our pursuit of sustainability is both effective and responsible. On housing affordability and property taxes: Joe Miller is a staunch advocate for fiscal responsibility in New Jersey, firmly believing that the state must reduce spending to alleviate the burden of high property taxes on its residents. He understands that excessive government spending directly impacts property taxes, making homeownership less affordable for many. By implementing measures to decrease spending, Joe aims to create a ripple effect that not only benefits property owners but also lowers the overall cost of living in the state, including reduced rent for tenants. His commitment to fiscal prudence is not only a path to lower property taxes but also a means to enhance the overall economic well being of all New Jersey residents. Final thoughts: Joe Miller is not only dedicated to public service but also a member of the Freemasons, an organization known for its principles of charity, brotherhood and community involvement. His involvement in the Freemasons reflects his commitment to values that prioritize the betterment of both himself and his community.
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.