WASHINGTON, D.C. — Criminal justice reform (or at least the first iteration of it) is on its way to President Donald Trump’s desk, and the President is sure to sign. Both he and Jared Kushner were primary forces behind securing its passage.
New Jersey’s best-known political figures were quick to weigh in.
U.S. Senator Cory Booker, who is about to launch a Democrat presidential campaign, thumped his chest for helping push the issue but couldn’t bring himself to form of the words “Trump” when doling out the kudos:
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A BIPARTISAN CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM BILL JUST PASSED THE SENATE!
This was years in the making. Thousands will obtain greater justice and new pathways to liberation as a result of this bill. This is just one step. This is just the beginning. The work must continue. Onward! ✨
— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) December 19, 2018
So grateful for all the advocates, activists, colleagues on both sides of the aisle, White House & House of Reps leadership – I’m grateful to all who helped make this happen. Thank you! One step in long journey of reform but a very good step nonetheless. https://t.co/cyFdBspg2K
— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) December 19, 2018
Former Governor Chris Christie for his part jumped in to congratulate the president (and himself) and non other than Jared Kushner:
This is a great first step. We did similar reform in NJ while I was Governor & crime is down & so is the prison population. A great win for .@realDonaldTrump & for the folks in Congress. The effort couldn’t have been successful w/o the relentless work of Jared Kushner. Big win. https://t.co/rIqRVAtrhh
— Chris Christie (@GovChristie) December 19, 2018
Christie’s public praise of Kushner will raise eyebrows.
The President’s son-in-law and right hand man was considered instrumental in securing the legislation’s passage.
Kushner has widely been viewed as the chief obstacle in Chris Christie attempts to land a choice Trump Administration post (like Veep or AG); in his former life as a U.S. attorney, Christie successfully prosecuted and jailed Kushner’s father Charles.
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