The Brian Lehrer Show The NJ Governor's Race Heats Up
Sep 4, 2025
David Cruz, a seasoned political correspondent at NJ Spotlight News, dives into the intense New Jersey gubernatorial race. He discusses how changing voter demographics are reshaping campaign strategies. The podcast unpacks contrasting campaign ads and delves into rising utility bills impacting voter sentiment. Cruz also explores candidates' approaches to immigration and the cultural issues like trans rights that are influencing electoral dynamics. With insights from nearly 30 years of political coverage, Cruz paints a vivid picture of the political landscape.
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Utility Rates Became A Central Pocketbook Issue
- Utility rate hikes became a salient affordability issue after spring rate decisions and summer AC usage drove bills up.
- Democrats struggled to counter the increases because independent agencies set rates beyond the governor's direct control.
State Emergency Claims May Lack Legal Power
- Mikie Sherrill proposes declaring a state of emergency to freeze or lower utility rates.
- David Cruz and Governor Murphy questioned whether a governor could actually change rates set by independent bodies.
Pursue Regional Energy Aggregation
- Municipal energy aggregation can lower costs by pooling purchasing power across towns.
- Pursue regional coordination rather than 565 separate municipal approaches to energy and services.