Opinion: Holmdel Republican Party Stifles the Voice of Holmdel Citizens

As campaign season winds to a close, the number of political messages to which we’re subjected seems to increase exponentially. TV. Radio. Phone calls. Lawn signs. Mail pieces.

This weekend, the Holmdel Republican Party disseminated a piece of campaign literature in support of their two candidates – Mayor Patrick Impreveduto and Committeeman Greg Buontempo. The 8.5 x 11 piece of orange paper was neatly tucked inside a plastic bag and placed in my mailbox – no postage paid.

It’s my assumption that the intent was to have the piece of literature placed on doors. Maybe the rain deterred the volunteers from making the extra effort? Maybe the volunteers needed to be reminded as to the law regarding the distribution of campaign literature? Either way, it must have been on oversight. The Holmdel Republicans have been running successful campaigns for years. Surely, they must know the simple rules around distribution of political propaganda.

Yet, in this instance, they did not follow the law. So, I respectfully commented on their Facebook page. I alerted them to the illegal activity conducted on their behalf and reminded them that something like this reflects negatively of their candidates.

Swiftly, my comment was deleted. I find this to be unacceptable. If this is the way the Holmdel Republican Party responds to basic concerns or inquiries, what trust can I have that they will be able to respectfully inform me of matters of even greater importance? Why wouldn’t the people who seek my vote wish to respond to my concerns with a level of transparent leadership? Why would they stifle my voice? Have they gotten so complacent with their one-party rule that they feel no need to respectfully respond to the concerns of all Holmdel residents?

I expect my elected leaders to engage in meaningful discourse. I expect them to acceptresponsibility. I expect them to respond when voters raise concerns. I am disappointed by the lack of integrity being exhibited by those who are currently holding office in a town I’m proud to call home.

It’s time to end the one party rule in Holmdel. It’s time to elect Janet Berk and Karen Strickland.

Patricia Teffenhart, MPA

Holmdel Resident

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