In a rare joint statement released on Tuesday night, leaders of both political parties in the state Legislature vowed to address New Jersey’s controversial ballot design in what some predict could spell the end for the state’s century-old “party line.”
In the letter, Senate President Nick Scutari, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco and Assembly Minority Leader John DiMaio said they’ve “listened to the public debate” about the ballot structure and agree that any changes would be best handled by the Legislature, which they’re prepared to do.
The statement came just a day after a lengthy federal court hearing on a lawsuit brought by state Rep. Andy Kim (D-3rd) to abolish the line. Kim is running in a heated U.S. Senate primary against first lady Tammy Murphy, where the so-called party line is playing a big part. Kim claims the line gives Murphy an unfair advantage, as he and other critics of the system said it favors party leaders and the candidates they back.
All four lawmakers declined NJ Spotlight News’ requests for an interview on the specifics of their plan.
Gov. Phil Murphy on Wednesday staunchly backed the use of the “party line” on ballots, but added he’s open to the Legislature reviewing the system. State Attorney General Matthew Platkin broke from Murphy on the matter and told the court that his office would not intervene to defend the practice.
