the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Trenton NJ, in a significant political move, New Jersey Assembly Republican leaders introduced articles of impeachment against Attorney General Matthew Platkin on Thursday, alleging he overstepped his authority and failed to fulfill his official duties.
Key Allegations Against Platkin
The resolution, officially designated as AR179, was introduced by Assembly Republican Leaders John DiMaio, Antwan McClellan, and Christopher DePhillips. According to a GOP press release, the articles of impeachment claim that Platkin has “weaponized his position” by directing the Division of Criminal Justice and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) to conduct investigations that have negatively impacted the state police’s operations.
Impact on State Troopers
Republican lawmakers argue that delays caused by the OPIA have stalled the careers of many state troopers. They claim that administrative cases involving state troopers have not been processed in a timely manner, affecting due process, disciplinary actions, and promotions within the force.
Other Allegations Against Platkin
The impeachment resolution also accuses Platkin of:
- Unlawfully taking control of the Paterson Police Department
- Failing to uphold state statutes in court
- Mishandling legal responses to the pandemic
- Improperly handling a rape accusation involving Gov. Phil Murphy’s campaign staffers
- Allegedly targeting pro-life pregnancy centers due to his ties with Planned Parenthood
Republican Lawmakers Speak Out
Assemblyman Antwan McClellan (R-Cape May) criticized Platkin, stating, “Governor Murphy’s AG has been pursuing high-profile cases to capture headlines, not criminals. It is evident his investigations lack merit by the number of charges that are ultimately dismissed by the courts.”
Platkin’s Response
Attorney General Platkin responded to the allegations in a statement, dismissing the resolution as a “partisan political attack.” He reaffirmed his commitment to his priorities, stating, “I am focused on the same priorities I have had since day one: driving gun violence down to historically low levels, holding social media corporations accountable for the harms they’re inflicting on our children, and protecting our residents — including by standing up to threats from Washington and fighting corruption, no matter who it offends.”
Background on Platkin
Platkin was appointed by Governor Murphy as New Jersey’s 62nd Attorney General in February 2022 and confirmed to the role in September 2022. His tenure has been marked by high-profile legal battles and policy initiatives aimed at tackling corruption, gun violence, and public safety concerns.
What’s Next?
The introduction of impeachment articles marks a significant escalation in political tensions within New Jersey’s state government. The resolution will now be reviewed by legislative committees before potential further action is taken.
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this AG is pathetic , but you got what you voted for
Long overdue
Get rid of him
He’s a political operative
Republicans have forgotten how to govern