Raise Your Voice
| July 29th, 2009 | Category: Ask Chris |Leave a Question for Chris Daggett
Chris Daggett appreciates the overwhelming response of intelligent and thoughful questions submitted. They have been very helpful in understanding the concerns of New Jersey residents, and in the formulation of specific policy plans. Many of the questions below have been answered in the specific policy papers available on this website.
We are posting the questions below to help further the discussion on how to fix broken government in New Jersey. Unfortunately, the overwhelming response makes it logistically impossible for Chris to campaign full-time and answer each question. We hope voters will continue to voice their concerns and questions, and as the campaign continues we hope to address them in future policy papers.
What’s the story with the NJ pension system? About every 6 months, regardless of the weather, we hear its on the brink of bankruptcy. Is it going bankrupt? Or is it just a bunch of hysteria?
I appreciate the job police do in my town, but I don’t understand why they get paid so much. Almost every single one is making over $100,000 a year which is more than most people make here. And they get to retire pretty early to. Can you explain how this happens? I don’t understand it.
Ewing Twp., New Jersey - General Motors property - is there anything in the near future regarding the purchasing and redeveloping the site for the betterment of the township? GM brought in homeowners, taxes dollars, supported small businesses, etc. Now the property just sits there vacant. Also, what about the Naval Turbine property that is directly across the street from the GM site? Any consideration or thoughts on how to reuse these properties to the benefit
of the Township?
Where do you stand on the social issues? Particularly, with regard to a woman’s right to choose and stem cell research. Additionally, I’m curious to know where you stand on the issue of school funding, with regard to special education, early intervention/preschool programs and funding for poor and near-poor districts.
What are your positions on illegal immigrants, the State budget, health care reform, Federal stiulus programs, NJ manufacturing jobs, and last but most important, Veterans health care and entitlements?
In your discussion of the environment, you do NOT mention Public/Mass Transit except in relation to COAH.
New Jersey Transit has deteriorated under the reign of Gov.’s Corzine, Codey , McGreevy and the late
Boxcar George Warrington, whom McGreevy hired & the others kept. Sarles, current boss, is a clone of
Boxcar George. Now we have ‘Corzine’s Folly’ aka ‘the tunnel’. Do you have any opinions? Care to learn more
about cheaper, better alternatives to ‘the tunnel’ and better operating practices? Better Public Transit for a
better NJ, both for the environment & the economy.
What is your feeling on the bill that almost forces parents to make their children get many vaccines? I find it unfair for the government to order you to do so; it should be the decision of the parent whether to vaccinate or to not use certain vaccines that they may feel are not necessary or could be an issue for their child’s health.
What is your stand on abortion and stem cell research?
What is your position on illegal immigration in this state. It’s out of control and I’d like to see some strong measures put into effect. Every landscaping company in NJ hires illegals which of course takes jobs away from Americans who work for a slightly hire wage. The criminal system, healthcare. That’s why we’re in a mess, or at least its a major factor. I hope you’re not one of those liberal forces when it comes to this issue. Also, there must be investigation and analysis of programs we do have running for waste, fraud and abuse.
Would You Push the Assembly into Passing Jessica’s Law
Post #2Mariel Hooper wroteon July 23, 2009 at 11:44am
I just met Chris Daggett at the Governor’s School of Public Issues where he came to speak. He is, in his words, “Pro-choice but not pro-abortion” and he says that he will sign the gay marriage bill if it passes through the state legislature.
Is this correct…
There has been discussion recently about the NJ Nets removing the NJ logo from their uniforms, which has sparked debate about the three major franchises that play their home games at the NJ Meadowlands, but are considered NY teams. The NFL Giants have played in NJ since 1975 and had training camp at Fairleigh Dickenson University for years prior to moving to Albany, NY and now have their training facilities in NJ. The NFL Jets have played in NJ since 1984 and now have their training facilities in Florham Park, NJ. These are New Jersey teams that are funded by New Jersey and should be recognized as being in New Jersey. Do you think that the government should intervene? (before the Phillies and Eagles move to Camden?)
Please let us know exactly how do you plan on fixing the high property taxes in NJ that has become a burden for most NJ homeowners. In the past, we have seen and heard promises about reducing property taxes just to get elected as the governor and do absolutely nothing about it while in office. Please be specific with your proposals to fix this growing problem. I am sick and tired of both the democrats and republicans who just lie to get elected. It’s about time we kick these incumbents out of office and elect someone who can help put NJ on the right track.
1) What is your stand on the 2nd amendment and what is your assesment of the current status of gun control in the state?
2) when are you going to start answering all of the questions posted on this page ?
Bill, good questions. We’ve fallen a bit behind due to the fact that Chris actually answers these himself. Being on the road a lot, and working on up coming policy which will answer many of these questions, the logistics have been problematic. Chris does appreciate all the questions. ~The Daggett Campaign Team
Where do you stand on legalization of Sports Betting?
How will you support expansion of mass transit, specifically rail? Light rail is sorely needed for the MOM plan. In my own East Brunswick, there is potential to use the old Raritan River Rail Road right of way for a light rail line between South Amboy and New Brunswick. We also need to continue the Coastal line down to Cape May. Will you work to ensure more influence is granted to transit?
Dear Mr. Daggett, we would like your opinions on three major topics that affect many seniors and the disabled. What is your view point on the closing of develomental centers where our challenged people are cared for? Secondly what is your view on abortion and the beginning of life at conception?
And thirdly what do you think can be done on behalf of senior citizens who must make the adjustments to the new work force, modern technology on our jobs, education to help us slower learners to keep our “seat” in the work place? Some of us feel we are about to get the boot because we don’t know as much as the younger workers who learn and adjust to new things much more easily than older folk. We have to work, and we want to learn new jobs, but the pressures are great.
What specifically sets you apart from the Democratic and Republican candidates running for governor?
What is your specific plan to cut property taxes.Despite all the talk and promises they continue to go up.Would you share/centralize municipal services? There is a lot of resistance to changing the status quo.Aqain, what is your specific plan? Thanks
I had the pleasure of meeting you on the Seaside Boardwalk last weekend. I was curious to one of the issues we did not speak of. What is your stance on gun control? It has become increasingly difficult for law abiding citizens of NJ to purchase firearms. I agree that we should diligently remove assault weapons from sale or possesion in NJ, however it is discouraging when a law abiding hunter has to wait 30plus days just to buy a shotgun. Also what is your stance on “concealed carry permits?”
I would love to support you agree on mant issues,but I need to know what your thoughts are on the Current project labor agreement now in affect.This insures construction projects funded with public funds are built UNION or at-least prevailing wage.If you do not support this my vote and many other union construction workers votes will be lost. People think we make too much money and drive up the cost of projects, when actually we the union worker are the least burden on the public meaning we have healthcare and retirement funds.Sure if a school is built non-union there is a up front cost savings, but these workers usually do not have these benifits an run up bills at emergency rooms etc..The quality of work not the same, and safety records are far better on union projects.Just a side note for others reading this if Christe gets in the project labor agreement will be one of the first things he gets rid of. THANKS
Where do you stand on tearing down the Garden State tollboths, off-shore oil drilling, the flat tax, non-lethal stem cell research and McGreevy’s executive order banning non-union labor on state funded projects?
NJ has the highest property taxes in the country. What is your plan to remedy that status and how much effort will you put into reliving the tax burden on NJ homeowners?
I am a trustee and volunteer river watcher with the Musconetcong Watershed Association (MWA). We recently investigated an oil spill in the Musconetcong River in Bloomsbury. In the cause of investigating and following up on the incident I discovered that the oil containment booms had been removed by the polluter before the oil leak was stopped and that oil was once again flowing into the river. Our calls to the DEP went unanswered and to the best of our knowledge the DEP never followed up on the polluter’s corrective action. The problem was finally corrected, but only after the MWA basically sat on polluter until they responded.
Now the EPA auditors have reported that this lack of follow-up is a endemic problem with the NJ DEP. The DEP seems to have lots of complicated bureaucratic procedures for just about everything, but when it comes to actually protecting the environment they seem to be lacking and inept. If you are elected, what changes will be made in the DEP to correct this problem?
This is probably a question you would prefer not to have to answer but its a hot button issue for me. What is your position on what to do about the nearly 20 million illegal aliens in our country? We have a lot of out of work and poorer people in New Jersey and I feel that in addition to them sapping our medical delivery system, and costing taxpayers large amounts of taxes for educating their children, they are also taking much needed jobs from those who need them most. So, what would you do about them in New Jersey as our Governor?
My question on NJ DEP lack of follow-up on pollution clean-up seems to have been dropped from the board. What happened?
What is your position/plan on dealing with illegal undocumented aliens in our state?
Besides the drain on state funds and increase in crime, we are seeing diseases that we thought were
under control, making a comeback, which I believe is due in part to undocumented, unvaccinated aliens.
Would like your plans for Homeowner Property Tax Rebates and Senior Freeze Rebates.
Also the current boondogle health care proposal.
It seems the biggest problem in New Jersey is property taxes. I know that property taxes are mostly a local matter but the state does get some of the revenue from property taxes and gives out rebate checks to residents. What would you do as governor to reduce the burden of property taxes for NJ residents?
NJ has tough gun laws. And, if the President has his way it will be worse than it is already. Will you defend our second amendement rights?
The local police chiefs and judges in kangaroo courts have been disarming the law-abiding public for years, circumventing the laws by applying rules or guidlines the state has set “like proving you have a need” to carry a gun. After seeing the crime rate in SJ go up I think it’s a pretty good reason to carry a gun for self defense. I would like to see a “must issue” law like other states have and who have lower crime rates.
What will you do to reverse this trend?
How do you feel about all of the double and triple dipping that goes on? What would you do to ensure this practice stops?
Cronyism keeps corrupt officials in power when the people who were hired “return the favor” and campaign for the elected, corrupt, official. It can be eliminated by having the NJ Dept of Personnel insist on examinations for all positions as called for in the NJ Constitution. Will you support this idea?
Mr. Daggett,
If you would be so kind as to describe your political philosophy in detail, i.e. fiscal conservative/social libertarian, centrist etc. I find that many individuals are interested in supporting your candidacy, however, they are uncertain of your personal political philosophy. Could you please clear up the confusion?
Also, do you believe the current size and scope of government in New jersey is: too large, too small, or about right?
Do you support or oppose medical marijuana?
Do you support or oppose Jessica’s Law?
Do you support or oppose the abolishment of the state income tax?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
I reviewed your environmental policies. You state you wish to implement the State Plan, modify the MLUL and allow municipalities to preserve open space and ” control traffic.” I am very concerned about the obvious failure of land use planning boards and the MLUL in N.J. to control sprawl and protect the environment and important historic locales. The MLUL is designed to facilitate more sprawl and more development.
How would you implement the State Plan? Right now it is only “a guide” and has no legal force.
Developers have been able to undermine the State Plan by applying successfully to amend and remove the environmentally sensitive designations from lands that need protection.
Would you modify/repeal the grandfathering loopholes presently in the 2007 Category One surface water rules that make a mockery of the SWRPAs ?
What would you do to modify the MLUL and the established line of cases beginning with the Dunkin Donuts case that prevent municipal Land Use Boards from limiting development based on unreasonable traffic impacts to the surrounding area?
Please advise what you would do would be different from “business as usual” in the the land use arena in NJ ?
Mr. Daggart I’m a registered Republican but not happy with either candidate. This election, thinking, of voting Independant, to search for improvement. I have three questions to ask, What are you planning to do for seniors? How are you planning to improvement attitude/agencies hired to assist the mental ill? My son has been unemployed for almost a year now, How will you improve employment in NJ? Please, Mr. Daggart, you are my last hope for improving my beloved state, don’t disqppoint us.
Suggestion: You need more advertisement on prime time TV as most residences of NJ are not aware of an independant seeking governmentship.
I’m leaning toward voting for you because of Sierra Club’s endorsement. However, I’m a homeowner, so the biggest issue to me right now is soaring property taxes. I think that property taxes should pay for property-related things like police and fire protection, local roads, garbage and recycling pick up. Education should be funded by income taxes–according to ability to pay. What do you think?
How will you reduce my property taxes?
Mr.Daggett, I’m fed up with the two major parties and I’m looking for candidates who are willing to fight for Our Constitution. How do we get the power out of DC and bring it back to the starts where Our constitution woudl have it? Where do you stand on the unconstitutional HR3200?
Thank You, Eugene Corno
I am a 54 yo. union member and a registered republican. I am desperately seeking a candidate to vote for. Since I believe both the Republican and Democratic parties are the reason for our currant state of affairs, both locally and nationally and are equally responsible for governmental expansion and erosion of civil liberties. That being said I would like to know your thoughts on
1- State sovereignty and nullification
2- Your statement on gun control implies the second amendment does not allow for the protection of person, property, and papers or an armed defense against a tyrannical government. Could you please clarify or expound on your position?
What is your stand on mandatory furlough days for state employees, flat tax, property tax?
Polling indicates that voting for you as an independent is improving the chances of Gov. Corzine to beat Chris Chirstie.
If NJ residents are so unhappy with NJ Government - why are so many sticking with their policatl parties? Neither party has helped NJ and its residents, business owners, PROPERTY TAX payers in some time.
If your independent run can’t win now - is NJ hopeless going forward?
I was curious on your policies toward medicaid. My son and myself are both on it. I do work, but I depend on it to keep mysel healthy so that I can work. I’m also on financial aid for Camden County Community. Do you plan on keeping the financial aid fund safe?
I have had it and want to help. How can I volunteer
You’ve addressed most of the issues that have concerned the state for many years, however I’ve seen very little information on an issue that is at the forefront of many Jerseyans concerns… Property taxes and the economy. We continue to lose residents and retirees at a staggering rate because people can’t afford to live here anymore. The quality of life in NJ is far lower than in other states. How do you plan to remedy our ever increasing property taxes and nationwide stigma as an unaffordable state to reloacate to or retire in?
First, your energy policy mentions the important of renewable and green energy sources but you fail to mention a specific stance on nuclear power. Are you generally for or against nuclear power? Specifically; there was great consternation when the Oyster Creek plant applied for re-licensing, where would you stand on the re-licensing of the Salem plant which is coming up in 2016. Also, would you be for or against additional nuclear plants constructed in the state?
Secondly, in regards to your transportation policy what is your stance on the MOM line proposed by NJ Transit running through Monmouth, Ocean, & Middlesex Counties; the Middlesex county leg (arguably the most sensible route) effectively being canceled due to democratic pressure on Gov. Corzine.
Chris how do u feel about Kyleigh’s Law and the possibility of teenagers being stalked by child predators because of it.
1). What are your thoughts on combining localized municipal services, such as police, education, etc to reduce the property tax burden on the NJ resident?
2). Will you overturn McGreevy’s order to ban non-union labor on state projects?
3). What do you see as the single most important issue facing NJ today, and how will you approach your resolution to this issue?
New Jersey mandates a multitude of childhood vaccines with no allowance for parents to claim a conscientious or philosophical exemption to any (it’s all or none and parents are not permitted to choose which vaccines they would like their children to have). What is your position on reforming NJs laws to allow for conscientious/philosophical exemption?
Why did you guys erase my question? What are your policies concerning medicaid? I need to be healthy in order to work.
Please state your postion on these two subjects: abortion and marriage
I WAS WUNDERING WERE YOU STAND ON THE PAID FAMILY LEAVE ACT.
I PERSONNALY THINK THAT IT SHOULD NOT APPLY TO SMALL BUSINESS IT IS A BURDEN ON THEM BECAUSE THEY DO NOT HAVE THE MANPOWER AND IF THEY LAY SOMEONE OFF THAT IS ON PFLA THEY HAVE TO RETRAIN THE NEW EMPLOYEES. AND I ALSO THINK THAT SHOULD PUT MORE STRINGENT CRITERIA ON THE PEOPLE REQUESTING A LEAVE.
What is your position on mandatory vaccination in NJ? Will you support a parent’s choice for philosophical/conscientious exemption?
How would you control our taxes for the public schools? Our Boards of Education are always crying that Trenton does not give them enough money to fund their budgets.. So when they do not get enough money from the state we in our town must make up the difference in our property taxes. Could you consolidate the 600 or more of the different towns Board of Education and make a corporation out of them and then they would have a budget to fund from and it could be controlled and monitored instead of all of these towns one by one and different budgets
I watched the debate last night and quite frankly I was impressed with your plans. But up until about 2 weeks ago I didn’t even know that you existed. It seems that the only candidates that you ever hear about are the wealthy one’s. And they are usually way out of touch with the people who actually have to pay the bills in this state What can be done to level the playing field for people such as yourself, to get the word out?
Regarding the many unions in NJ - what is your plan for them and how will you work with them?
For many sick New Jerseyans, the issue of medicinal marijuana is critical. We have had a bill in the state senate that has been rewritten and compromised upon to the point where it will truly do little good. Where do you stand on the chronically ill’s right to use marijuana to alleviate pain and sufering?
Hello, i am writing this to ask you to PLEASE do more advertising on TV, if possible, i dont want to see either corzine or christie win this election and i would like to know who made a STATE law to have the swine flu vaccination a mandatory thing for CHILDREN in school? i am not sure if i agree with these shots they SHOULD be OUR CHOICE and not mandatory..we do not know enough about them and they may cause more harm than good. thank you and good luck….you have my vote!!! Colleen
Do you have a specific plan regarding the system of binding arbitration that is bankrupting us?
I really enjoyed watching you in the first televised debate and am happy to see your popularity growing as people get to know you. Your humor is much appreciated. During the post-debate analysis on NJN, Alan Steinberg said in essence that your property tax cut proposal is completely unrealistic and that Chris Christie needs to highlight that. Can you address his belief that there is no way that the expanded sales tax will bring in enough money to cover the property tax reduction? Also, it might be helpful if you were give some examples of how your proposed tax changes would affect a range of households. On another note, I think that many people still don’t understand that no matter how much you cut State government, that the problem of escalating costs at the local government levels is still a big problem.
Mr. Daggett,
I have a question. I obtained my current job as a result of my qualifications for the job. I do not have any political ties to anyone, no one did me any favors nor do I owe anyone any favors for me to get my job. The catch is that I am a state employee and, quite frankly, have grown tired of not being able to be proud of the job I do due to the numerous misrepresentations in the media that “state employees” are THE problem with New Jersey’s tax burden. Last I checked, my property taxes support LOCAL and COUNTY employees (which includes teachers) at a FAR HIGHER rate than my income taxes support STATE functions. Having said that, I have no doubt that, despite the cuts that I know my agency has endured over the last 5 years (including not giving unclassified employees ANY raises for the past 3 years), there are additional cuts that can be made. My question to you, sir, is what is your position on government employees? Do you feel they should be treated fairly? Do you believe they are treated fairly? How would you address the multiple layers of government? And what is your position on how best to “restructure” New Jersey’s government — is it simply a last in, first out mentality applicable only to state employees or do you believe that quality and impact of one’s work should play a part in an evaluation of a person’s worth to the state?
Thank you for your time and response.
I don’t want either of the other two candidates. My husband says if I vote for you, I will assure Corzine gets re-elected. Is this true? Is there some number you have to make in order to win? He thinks I will be wasting my vote; I hope there’s enough of us out here who don’t want either of the other two.
I’d like you to expand a bit on your stance on 2nd amendment rights….while I agree that there must be some gun laws, I also think that the right to protect oneself and one’s family extends beyond the home. In order for this to occur, we need to have concealed carry permits more widely and readily available to law-abiding citizens. Will you support this end?
What will you to to assure that I will be able to purchase more of my energy from wind generating facilities than the meagre percentage I can now purchase through PSE&G?
Candidate Daggett, it was a pleasure to meet you in person in Morristown today. Having been elected as an Independent to our Town Council, I appreciate the unique challenge you have undertaken, and am grateful to you for finally addressing the serious problems that our two-party system has failed to fix in New Jersey.
Four years ago I managed an Independent mayoral campaign in which the previously-unknown candidate garnered 40% of the vote in a three-way race. So my question for you is this - can 34% of the vote win this race? Sounds doable to me!
Hi Chris, My big Question is how do you plan to down size the state ( work force ) and it’s government, and are you going to let Union’s control you ? second question, how do you serious plan to control the out of control schooling system that puts a heavy burden on all home owner’s that don’t have children and never had any ? third question, what numerical tax figure do you purpose to stick to the state being it a flat tax across the board ? and last but not least for the last 12 years this state government has taken it upon its self to sign into law taxs that were never voted on by the people, do you purpose that they be nil ?
Do you favor allowing off shore drilling? and Wouldn’t this help in providing a large income for N.J.
What is your position on home schooling?
What is your position regarding union labor ?
Why is NJ spending 8 billion, 6 billion from NJ taxpayers, to build a new Hudson River rail tunnel and where is the stone/debris from the tunnel going to be dumped is this the real reason for the tunnel, why is going to terminate 20 stories under Macy’s on 34th street?????
I live in Ho-Ho-Kus, Bergen County and commute to the city from the Ridgewood park and ride on Route 17 using the Shortline Bus service. When they were on strike it took me an extra 1/2 hour and an added dollar each way using train service from Ho-Ho-Kus to either the Path in Hoboken or transfering at Seacaucus transfer station to Penn station and if you drive from NYC thru the Holland Tunnel and take exit for Route 1 & 9 you will see how NJ is falling apart. Why are we building this tunnel?????
What is your possition on project labor agreements and labor unions in general?
For four consecutive years, New Jersey has ranked dead last, fifty out of fifty, as the state with the worst climate for business, and for small business in particular. Given that small businesses account for the vast majority of existing jobs and new job creation, this problem should be addressed.
What will you do to change this sad state of affairs?
Thank you.
I just heard you on NJ 101.5. I think you came off well.
Do you have any plans to deal with the issues concerning the developmentally disabled population in our state? I am the mother of a young developmentally disabled adult who is an only child. I’m concerned enough about the status of adult services in NJ that I feel I am going to have to move sometime in the next few years so that I can ensure my child will be properly cared for after my death. The waiting list for group home placement for developmentally disabled adults is now approximately 8 years long, and parents basically need to be facing death or terminal illness themselves to have their child put on the list. The backlog in having the state process guardianship for parents who can’t afford a private lawyer is also years long. I’d like to see what plans you have that might address these issues that are so important to my family. Thank you.
Dear Mr. Daggett,
As a fee-only financial planner in the State of NJ. My clients are middle-income individuals who are looking for advice on how to increase their savings and help plan for a secure retirement. A sales tax assessment on my services is just going to increase the fees that these clients pay to get financial help. If anything, we as residents in the State of NJ should encourage individuals to look for financial help and encourage educational programs related to financial literacy. Financial planning services should not be considered only for the rich since they need to be accessible to individuals of all walks of life. Have you considered that a sales tax on financial planning services may make it more difficult for middle-income NJ Residents to get competent and affordable financial planning advice? Perhaps a financial planning tax credit for individuals below a certain income level could be a very interesting way to NUDGE individuals to deal with their financial issues, and ultimatley improve the financial health of this State.
Until I saw you in a debate against Corzine and Christie recently, I was thinking of NOT voting for the first time in my life. I was very impressed with you, your issues and the fact that I do not feel that you are encircled by corruption and false promises. I saw hope on the horizon but the public needs to see more Daggett exposure in the media. Unfortunately, I am a disabled (polio) 72 year old fighting breast and pancreatic cancer struggling to pay high medical bills wanting to help in some meager way. I wonder if starting an email campaign to friends here in NJ might further expand your campaign. I have forwarded articles and excerpts to some of my friends who have not heard of Chris Daggett. I know that you probably do not have the campaign funds that the other 2 candidates now have but if there is any way to keep you in the public eye, please let this homebound voter know what she can do to help. We need an honest governor in office and want to see you elected.
LeeAllan Gutshall
What is your position on (1) abortion and (2) stem cell research?
Dear Mr. Daggett,
It was a pleasure meeting you today in Seaside at the Italian Festival. The more I hear you speak, the more I know we need you in Trenton. I wanted to let you know that you have brought fresh air to the political scene in NJ. It’s been a very long time since we had a candidate who is honest enough to stand for a new direction rather than just more of the same ! I am looking forward to attending the debate on Friday night and watching you win another one. Stay on point as you so eloquently do and let the other two box each other right out of the election. NJ is tired of the same old views….2009 is the year when we take back out state from the machine !! You make me proud to be a NJ resident again
What is your take on the nearly forty year-old War on Drugs?
I have a brother with special needs who was moved to North Carolina when My Mom moved there 20 years ago. Ten years ago, on his 50th birthday, Mom could no longer handle him at home, and my brother Phillip was made a ward of the state of NC, and placed in a “family group home” where he has support through their DDS, akin to our DDD services.
Mom recently had a medical situation and is recuperating in Houston Texas with another sister. This leaves my brother “stranded” from family. I am his legal medical guardian. I would like him returned to New Jersey, but was told by DDD that with an 8000 person waiting list, Phillip is North Carolina’s “problem.”
Phillip now 60 needs supervision and support. He is unable to dress, bath, and toilet himself. He has a lot of prescribed medications, and is overweight (he used to be a “stick”) thanks to inactivity and poor diet at the group home prior to his current situation.
With the state debt so high, and people with special needs so vulnerable, and ever increasing; with the waiting list so long, and rules saying it takes 6 months residency to even be put onto the waiting list and 7 to 10 years to be afforded help…. what can someone in my situation do? How can you help? What would your governorship propose to help others in similar situations? What plan do you have to provide relief for those aging parents and families with adults & children with special needs?
Is it possible that, while running for Governor, you may have given some thought to a third party organization for New Jersey? I don’t know how the election will turn out… but a lasting vehicle for political change in NJ (. an orgnization) may ultimately be more valuable than you winning the Governor’s mansion. Is it premature?
I want to clarify your proposal on teacher’s tenure. I believe that you’re stating that tenure would not be offered to newly hired teachers nor to those who have not yet been granted tenure but those who already have tenure would keep it. Is this a correct interpretation of your proposal?
I would like to know what you will do to help those who are out of work?
My husband has been laidoff for a year now and if he doesn’t get an extention on his unemployement then we could lose our apartment.He is trying to find work .He goes to unemployement every other day to
look at the job boards and he applies for the jobs he is suited for and he is enrolled in five different employment agencies and in six different internet employment agencies.But he still can’t find work and I have no insurance for our daughters or ourselves and my husband is asthmatic and I can’t afford his medicine.So please let me know. You should fix the box that says mail so it says email. Holly
Hi chris-
i did vote for corzine, i thought he’d use his business sense. i was going to vote for christie. there is no point.
I want to know why, you are going to tax every business? why wouldn’t you look to cut first? and, if you are going to “expand the tax” why tax at 7%? i do believe that this expanded tax will hurt NJ in many ways.
when we don’t have money we look to cut. the government should do the same. Then i would suggest you spread the tax out. a penny here a penny there. To pay 7% on each and every daily service ie dry cleaning, haircuts, landscaper, painter, car wash. You are going to so over burden everyone.
lets cut first.
Dear Mr. Daggett - I would love to vote for you as governor, however being Catholic I can’t morally vote for a candidate who won’t promise to try to eliminate abortion. As far as a woman’s right to choose, no one has the right to choose to kill. I contributed to your campaign because I believe that you have good ideas to help NJ out of the rut that it is in. I also believe that the present 2 party system we have needs to change and I would love to see an Independent have a fighting chance to win office, which I think you have. It urks me that I may have to vote for Christie because of his anti-abortion stance which is the only good thing I see in him. I can’t even consider Corzine at all! Perhaps you could rethink your moral priorities and help in the fight to eliminate abortion. You may lose the pro-choice supporters but you’d gain pro-life supporters! Thanks for listening.
October 14, 2009
This was sent today to the Press of Atlantic City. You have mi y vote and many others in Ocean City.
Send a Message to Trenton
The upcoming New Jersey gubernatorial election provides a rare opportunity for voters. In this election we have two mainstream candidates who are “more of the same”. Many people (I would venture most) are voting for the candidate they dislike least. Both candidates have shown that they are politicians in the modern sense with their numerous “lapses in judgment” and negative adds ad nauseam.
The opportunity in this election is that there is an independent candidate in Chris Daggett who communicates well, is not afraid to present detailed ideas, is qualified for the job and most importantly is not indebted to special interests. In the first debate, Daggett was head and shoulders above the others and showed a presence, intellect and sense of humor which are sorely needed in our leadership.
People claim to feel powerless when it comes to politics. One hears often that our leaders don’t hear us and are sorely out of touch. What a powerful message we could send if a man like Daggett were elected. He could do no worse a job than the party candidates and may do much better without the baggage they carry. More importantly, it would send a strong message to other New Jersey elected officials that they had better start listening. Electing Daggett would have a national ripple as well since the New Jersey gubernatorial election is a harbinger of elections in other states.
It is past time to send a wake-up call. Don’t waste a vote on the candidate you dislike least. Vote in a direction that might help New Jersey in the long run.
We need change. I would like to contribute but only via PayPal or by check.
What is your stand on abortion and stem cell research?
A lifetime registered Democratic but frequent voter for Republicans, I’m considering for the first tiome in my life voting for someone for a major office who is neither. I like much of what I read. I would like to comment, though, on the candidate’s policy on taxes. I like the change to a sales tax. II’d like to comment that the relaince on a ‘cap’ to hold down local government spending assumes that local governemtn officials don’t care about local tax rates. Having worked for years in local government for years, I have observed that most local government elected officials DO want to hold down spending, but they lack one key tool - and that’s the ability to control run-away costs for salaries and benefits for uniformed cops and firefighters, which in turn influence decisions on other local employees (how many years in a row can you give 0-2% to non-uniformed employees when the cops and firefighters are getting 4%). Without some MAJOR change to current system of binding arbitration, there will be no true controls on local spending, not without cutting drastically into services, because all the money continue to pour into the pockets of the cops and firefighters (and to a lesser edtent, other employees). Leave everything else in the tax policy intact - including the caps on local governemtn expenditure - but FIX BINDING INTEREST ARBITRATION.
With 1 in every 90 children in NJ being diagnosed with autism will you ask for an immediate investigation into the states massive vaccine schedule and broken DDD system. Currently 12000 mentally disabled adults are living and home with elderly parents when the wave of autistic teens hit 21 what plan do you have to protect them when their loved ones pass.
Best of Luck
You state that you support NJ’s current gun control laws as a way to combat crime.
While everyone who has followed the current firearms laws to purchase guns can be assumed to be purchasing firearms according to the curent laws, do you have any statistics on how many criminals have been following the law in their purchasing and registering of guns?
For example, do you feel the one gun a month restriction on handgun purchases will discourage criminals from purchasing more than one gun a month - and if so, how many guns does a criminal need to purchase per month in order to commit a crime?
And if there is no good answer to that question, how will restricting the purchase of handguns by law abiding citizens who don’t commit crimes, help reduce crime?
I beleive both Corzine and Christie said they would sign the Compassionate Use Act , where do you stand on medical marijuana?
What is your view on mandatory flu shots for preschool students. There are a lot of New Jersey mothers who are upset that their children are being forced to have a flu shot (njvaccinationchoice.org).
Dear Chris and family and Team Daggett, I met you at the 4H Fair at Van Saun and again at the Rutherford street fair. We spoke at length about health and vaccines. Unfortunately, I will not be at your debate tonight with the NJ Coalition for Vaccine Choice group, but I beg of you to consider allowing conscientious objections to vaccines in NJ. Follow the money trail of Big Pharma and the horrible damage they have wreaked on the children of NJ. Look at our soaring autism spectrum disorder rates. We can’t AFFORD NOT TO make some changes, from a health perspective, a position of responsibility to our children and the cost of helping these families. You are the only one that I see being capable of considering the truth behind these health issues. Where there is possibility, there is the potential for anything to happen. Sincerely, Cynthia Henrich
You are the best candidate, and you will get my vote. However, I fear the Republicans and Independents will split between you and Christy while the Democrat majority blindly votes for Corzine. I wish there were only two of you running.
Chris I agree Teachers tenure is something that needs to be addressed, But I have a question about the teachers merit pay. How would you work it? Would you tie it into test scores or improvement of students or another factor?
Chris,
Please provide Campaign signs along Pond Rd, on the way to State Route 9 North in Freehold and Manalapan, NJ 07726. Also, the Jackson Outlets Mall has everyone but you facing it along County Route 537 in Jackson, NJ 08527. If you get these out there, I will help to take them in after the election (as required by township codes). I would like to see more of your signs along Route 9 corridor in Monmouth County.
Thank you for your interest in NJ well being. I really don’t want any higher taxes or I will move out of state.
Chris,
There are alot of us down here in South Jersey that are liking what you are saying. We’re trying to pass the word, But it would be better if you would make some appearances down this way.
Keep up the good Work.
Everyone suppports adult stem cell research. Specifically, what is your stand on embryonic stem cell research?
I just received my Township of Union sample ballot, and I am shocked. I had a problem finding Chris’ name, and only after searching among the 10 paris of “Nomination by Petition” names, was I able to locate Chris & Frank in Column 2D. On the other hand, the candidates of the two major political parties each had their name prominently appearing at the top of Columns A & B - immediately visible to anyone who looks at the ballot.
This is disgusting and wreaks of the usual NJ political corruption. Chris & Frank are polling better and better as the election draws near, and they deserve their own full column on the ballot, yet, in the voting booth, voters will undoubtedly have a hard time finding them.
Am I the only one who is concerned about this?
Has anyone filed a complaint about this? It certainly has the appearance of “rigging” the election in favor of the two major parties.
I read Mark DiIonno’s article in the Star-Ledger today. L. Mason Neely makes some excellent points. As Governor how would you approach the problem of the State’s Public Pension System?
I work for the state of NJ and I am getting tired of my co-workers telling me to vote for Corzine just to save my job, when we all know if he gets back in, our jobs might not be there anyway.
I am not the typical state worker. Some of us really work hard at our jobs and don’t get paid what we should be paid.. The office I work in is a joke, time sheets are not reported correctly for some staff members - and if you raise a question regarding the matter, retaliation is around the corner. Then you have a few people doing the work, while the rest of the office, sits around and chats all day, and all you hear is how hard they worked..
I am not one to want to see taxes raised, but at this point, I think Chris Daggett’s solution to be one that this state needs at this point.
My question to Mr. Daggett is…
Will you allow this to continue or will you step up and clean up the State workforce?
Wasted vote or not… Chris Daggett has mine!
I attended a conference today sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics and we miss Marilyn Kent. Our current governor cut the positon of a school health rep on the Dept of Ed. We need this positon ! An experienced certified school nurse that has the knowledge to be an advocate for the students in NJ! Will you reinstate this necessary representative?
You have my vote..not a wasted vote
While Washington may want to continue to bail out large corporate interests. I am looking for you to make companies in New Jersey hire workers and accept lower profits until we can get the economy rolling again. If not, they should pay a tax for every worker they lay off. If people are working, they will begin to spend money. If companies want to play by the old wall street rules they can help fund unemployment for the state. We need to get companies not just in this state but in this country to understand that producing and selling a product or service is the path to profits not taking loans and downsizing workers.
What is your position on medical marijuana? Gov Corzine states that if a compassionate-use bill ends up on his desk, he will sign it. How about you?
I am a lifelong Democrat who just voted for you, and although polling is not on your side, I hope you win. I was talking about voting with my 16 year old daughter who asked why I voted for you when it was unlikely that you would win, and I explained that if we all voted with our conscience, we could effect change. Structurally, however, the tax situation in NJ cannot change unless the current system of lots of small towns with their individual bureaucratic fiefdoms changes. If people really want to see their tax bills go down, they are going to have to live with much more centralized municipal services - not necessarily fewer services, but certainly more centralized. My local borough and township recently voted (again) not to consolidate. How can people complain about property taxes without realizing that a significant change in taxes will require a significant change in the way services are delivered - not just to other people, but to each of us?
I was away for a few days… is Afghanistan now a working democracy? When can we expect that here, or is the price of entry going to remain too high?
I am proud to have voted for Chris Daggett. Sorry we did not see a victory with him as Governor. I hope Mr. Daggett will consider running again in the next election!