Election Season: A Call for Accountability and Transparency in Old Tappan

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Old Tappan NJ, As election season heats up in Old Tappan, a slew of issues have surfaced, raising concerns about transparency and adherence to electoral laws. Reports indicate that the “Old Tappan Republican Party” is operating without a legal address, treasurer, or proper financial statements, prompting questions and frustration among residents.

One particular mailer listed an address at 23 Irving Street, yet the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has no records for this address. Additionally, there have been numerous social media posts from this group without the mandatory “Paid For By…” disclaimer, leaving voters wondering about the true source of these communications.

ELEC Regulations and Requirements

The ELEC mandates political organizations to use a valid registration number and PIN as an electronic signature for every person responsible for signing a campaign finance report. This includes the candidate, treasurer, deputy treasurer, and possibly the chairperson. Moreover, political committees must file a 48-hour notice with the Commission if they make expenditures exceeding $1,400 from the 13th day before an election up to and including Election Day. This notice can be filed using Form E-1, a letter, telegram, mailgram, or any other written means.

ELEC manages several critical laws to ensure transparency and fairness in elections, including:

• The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act
• The Gubernatorial Legislative Disclosure Statement Act
• Legislative and Governmental Process Activities Disclosure Act

The Dangers of a “Rules Are for Other People” Mentality

In every community, workplace, and social setting, individuals who operate under the belief that “rules are for other people” pose significant risks. This mentality, where certain individuals think they are exempt from the norms and regulations that guide our behavior, can have far-reaching consequences. Let’s explore why this mindset is problematic and how we can foster a more equitable and respectful environment for everyone.

Erosion of Trust and Fairness: When some people disregard rules, it undermines the sense of fairness and equality. This can breed resentment and frustration among those who do follow the guidelines, leading to a toxic environment where trust is diminished.

Safety Risks: Rules often exist to protect individuals and the community. Ignoring safety protocols, traffic laws, or workplace regulations can lead to accidents, injuries, or worse, putting everyone at risk.

Reduced Accountability: When individuals believe they are above the rules, it can create a culture of impunity. Without accountability, people are less likely to take responsibility for their actions, leading to a breakdown in discipline and order.

Negative Role Models: Leaders and public figures who flout the rules set a poor example for others, especially impressionable young people. This can perpetuate a cycle where the next generation grows up believing that bending or breaking the rules is acceptable behavior.

Moving Forward

The issues reported in Old Tappan serve as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and adherence to electoral laws. By ensuring all political entities comply with ELEC regulations, we can maintain a fair and trustworthy electoral process.

It’s crucial for community leaders and residents alike to advocate for accountability and set a positive example. By fostering a culture of integrity and respect for rules, we can create a more equitable environment where everyone plays by the same guidelines, ensuring a fair and democratic election process.

As we move closer to Election Day, let’s hold ourselves and our political representatives to the highest standards, ensuring that the democratic process is conducted with transparency and fairness.

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