Some N.J. Republicans Forced to Walk Awkward Line in Election 2013 as Opponents Embrace GOP Governor
By Matt Rooney | The Save Jersey Blog
Governor Chris Christie accepted another Democrat endorsement earlier this week, Save Jerseyans, holding a joint press conference alongside Manville Mayor Angelo Corradino on Monday with a classic diner backdrop framing just the latest tangible sign of Barbara Buono’s impending political doom:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHRgaB2PR60
Not everyone was impressed. Notably, Manville Republican council candidates Susan Asher and Rich Onderko.
The pair issued a joint release welcoming the endorsement with more than a tinge of sarcasm, noting how “Governor Christie’s ability to resonate Republican values penetrates even deep within the Democratic Party,” and that they’re glad Mayor Corradino also wants to “stand with Governor Christie and strive to bring his values and ideals to the town of Manville.”
“As a personal note to the mayor,” added Rich Onderko, “if you ever want to change parties, that is another story.”
Asher and Onderko’s position is awkward, surely, but it’s also not one that’s unique to them in 2013.
As Governor Christie continues to buck traditional party lines across the Garden State like a post-partisan wrecking ball, Democrats and Republicans alike are presented with extremely tough tactical choices. A significant number of Democrat incumbents are choosing to deal with the potential of a Christie wave by jumping ship and endorsing the Republican Governor rather than risk being swept away with the tide. Republicans challengers, in turn, are compelled to endure watching the man at the top of their ticket shower praise on the opposition.
It’s a brave new world, folks…
