As we gear up for election day in an off-year election, it is important to know each candidates voting record. Every year I do my research and every year I become increasingly concerned about our State Legislature, yes here in New Jersey.Across the country, we continue to see states dismantle women’s reproductive freedoms by forcing women and children to give birth even if the life of the mother is in jeopardy. Yes, children as young as ten, typically the result of rape or incest, are forced to give birth. Nauseating right?

Well maybe not to all. Apparently, our own Republican lawmakers in LD 21, State Senator Jon Bramnick, State Assemblywomen Nancy Munoz and Michele Matsikoudis all abstained their vote on codifying Roe in New Jersey. In fact, Senator Bramnick after watering down the Freedom of Reproductive Choice Act still abstained showing his lack of moral courage while turning his back on women’s rights. And since MicheleMatsikoudisandNancyMunoz have been in office, they have ABSTAINED on every abortion vote. Isn’t Nancy Munoz a nurse? Isn’t reproductive health healthcare?

I ask the reader, why abstain? They were elected to make these difficult decisions. They were elected to represent their constituents. Two elected women had the opportunity to support other women during a very emotionally painful experience. But your republican legislators abstained from this historic vote.

I know what these lawmakers didn’t abstain from, BillA4769/S3214.Agun safety bill that would strengthen conceal carry laws in New Jersey immediately following the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Courts Bruen decision to allow conceal carry in all states. BramnickandMatsikoudisvoted“NO” and Munoz didn’t vote to protect the public from carrying guns to entertainment venues, amusement parks, casinos libraries, youth sporting events, bars, and restaurants where alcohol is served and places of worship. REALLY?

It’s clear, we need real leadership in NJ21, not the same old representatives who lack courage. What New Jersey really needs is Matt Marino, Elizabeth Graner and Chris Weber to represent the people of this district. Three people with moral conviction who are running to protect reproductive choice, common sense gun safety, the environment, and our public school system.

New Jersey is a great place live! Let’s ensure it stays that way. Don’t look away!

Marci Bandelli Westfield

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