My Own Political Party

Since New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine’s toll hike plan might be dead in the water, he has decided that he must cut spending. His proposed spending cuts would total $500 million. Just a fraction of the current debt of $38 billion.

The first two years Corzine was in office he INCREASED the State budget by $5 BILLION. This was to pay for pension obligations and homeowner property tax rebates. Let’s take a look at these two items.

Pension - In New Jersey, you can receive more than one pension. That’s right. You can work three part time New Jersey government jobs and receive three different pensions. You can even work a job that doesn’t require you to show up and get a New Jersey pension. You just have to know the right people. One out of every 14 people in New Jersey are in the NJ pension system.

Property Tax Rebates - Because New Jersey pays the highest in property taxes in the nation, some brilliant politician thought it would be a great idea to give “rebates.” These rebates are based on income. The more you make, the less you get. Instead of trying to lower property taxes, New Jersey has increased spending by setting up a system that requires more employees, more paperwork and more money!

By the way - the toll hike plan that Corzine proposed? He spent almost $8 million on lawyers and other fees just to come up with the proposal. Great savings idea.