Political Violence Bill Advances as NJ Globe Credibility Comes in Question

TRENTON — New Jersey lawmakers have introduced bipartisan legislation that would create a new criminal offense for politically motivated violence, a move supporters say is necessary to deter attacks aimed at silencing political speech and civic participation.

The bill, sponsored by State Senators Brian Stack and Doug Steinhardt, would establish “political violence” as a separate charge that cannot be merged with other criminal offenses. Under the proposal, crimes such as assault or property damage would carry enhanced penalties when committed for political reasons, including potential first-degree exposure and lengthy prison sentences.

Supporters argue that political violence represents a direct threat to democratic institutions and free expression, warranting stronger deterrence and independent prosecution. The legislation would also establish a review mechanism to oversee enforcement and ensure consistency statewide.

Selective Outrage and a Distorted Narrative

Despite the seriousness of the legislation, controversy erupted following coverage by New Jersey Globe, particularly its final paragraph, which focused heavily on Union City Mayor Brian Stack and Investigative Journalist, Leroy Truth.

That coverage framed Leroy Truth as a central figure responsible for cyber harassment and alleged death threats directed at Stack, implicitly assigning blame for the actions of third parties who independently contacted Stack’s office by phone, email, or message. What the article failed to acknowledge is that harassment and death threats are not a one-way street.

For years, Leroy Truth has himself been the target of aggressive communications — including threats — from Stack supporters, political volunteers, and individuals believed to be connected to City Hall. Unlike Stack, however, Truth has not been afforded sympathetic coverage or public outrage from the same media outlet.

Dismissed Charges and First Amendment Reality

This is not the first time a narrative of “cyber harassment” has been advanced against Leroy Truth. Previously, Brian Stack and disgraced former Union City Police Chief Anthony Facchini pursued criminal cyber-harassment and bullying charges against him. Those charges were ultimately dismissed, reinforcing long-standing constitutional precedent that speech critical of public officials — even harsh, offensive, or uncomfortable speech — is protected under the First Amendment.

The courts have already spoken on this issue. Continuing to portray constitutionally protected political speech as criminal harassment is not journalism — it is misinformation.

New Jersey Globe’s Credibility Problem

The controversy surrounding the article has also reignited scrutiny of New Jersey Globe itself and its owner, David Wildstein.

Wildstein is not merely a political commentator with opinions — he is a convicted felon who pleaded guilty in the Bridgegate scandal, a nationally infamous case involving the intentional closure of lanes on the George Washington Bridge for political retribution. His role in that scandal is well documented and undisputed.

Yet New Jersey Globe continues to posture as a neutral arbiter of political truth while selectively shielding powerful political allies and attacking private citizens engaged in political commentary. The publication’s alignment with entrenched political machines, particularly in Hudson County, raises serious questions about editorial independence and motive.

If credibility were truly a priority, one might expect Wildstein to confront his own political history with the same intensity he applies to others. An honest, comprehensive accounting of Bridgegate — the abuse of power, the retaliation, and the corruption — would go far further toward restoring public trust than repackaging establishment narratives under the banner of “journalism.”

We would like to encourage David Wildstein to write an article about his involvement with Bridgegate under the direction of former governor Chris Christie. A transparent account will bring back some real credibility, not hosting gubernatorial debates.

The Bigger Picture

The proposed political violence legislation deserves sober, balanced discussion. But weaponizing the bill to smear critics, rewrite history, or criminalize dissent only underscores why such laws must be applied carefully — and why free speech protections remain essential when public officials are involved.

Political violence should be condemned.

Threats should be investigated.

But speech is not violence, and criticism is not harassment — no matter how uncomfortable it may be for those in power.

Additionally, the Leroy truth and North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco alliance narrative is really becoming old fake news. Yes, we’re still waiting for David Wildstein and Brian Stack to provide any evidence that will prove beyond a reasonable doubt, direct payments from Mayor Nick Sacco to Leroy Truth. Clearly, David Wildstein has nothing else to report but the same old misinformation and fake news. Show the proof David show the public the proof!

Until media outlets stop “laying in the same bed” as political bosses and start reporting all the facts — not just the convenient ones — claims of moral authority will continue to ring hollow.