Politics & Government

Op-Ed: State Should Join West Deptford in Ending Free Benefits

Republican Senate challenger says it's time to end perks for part-time elected officials.

West Deptford Township is headed in the right direction by ending free medical insurance coverage for part-time elected officials. 

Months ago I called on my opponent, Sen. Steve Sweeney, to join me and work to end publicly-funded pensions for part-time state and municipal elected officials. Taking away free medical insurance is relevant as part of a package of necessary reforms to rid government of career politicians.

I maintain that you don't need to legislate term limits if expensive taxpayer-funded pensions and medical care for part-time elected public officials are eliminated. In New Jersey, almost all part-time professional politicians presently collect expensive taxpayer-funded perks and benefits. Take away such perks, and holding public office becomes a burden.  

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With reform, officeholder satisfaction shall come from serving the public interest, and not the officeholder's petty self-interest. When the person thinks they've done enough, they will leave. Another altruistic, eager public servant shall step up and take the place. 

Mike Mulligan, Esq.
Carneys Point, N.J.

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Mulligan is the Republican candidate for NJ Senate in the 3rd District.


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