What year is it?

It is hard to believe that the blatant power grab by party bosses apparently underway in Bergen County's less-than-illustrious Democratic Party could take place in 2007. That's not to suggest that human nature has changed much since the heyday of the political machines. The desire for power and influence and all their attendant benefits, financial and otherwise, are as alive and well today as they were in Boss Tweed's day. What is so surprising about the thinly disguised efforts to concentrate control of the Democratic Party in the hands of those with the power to bestow favors on the rank and file (i.e. the Chairman and his inner circle) is that they would clearly set back the process of fixing the many problems that plague our area, and yet there is no shame or reluctance among party leaders to introduce these harmful changes.

By controlling the use of the Democratic party name and allowing only candidates who repeatedly pass their test to use it, Joseph Ferriero and his allies effectively reserve for themselves the power to recall any sitting legislators who do not meet with their approval. And forget about any new blood, unless, of course, it is handpicked by Ferriero & Co. Unfortunately, placing the Democratic Party in the hands of select few will do little to harm the general support that the party enjoys, as the area's Republican Party is weak and fractured, giving the Democratic machine free license to have its way.

What is its way? It is the way of pay to play, the way of influence peddling and protection of their own at the expense of the taxpayer. It is the way of inefficiency and waste. While this is wrong anytime, it is especially inappropriate when many residents are struggling under the weight of a rapidly increasing tax burden.

In the absence of a credible alternative, it leaves many with no choice but to support State Sen. Weinberg and her two protegés in the Assembly whom Ferriero seeks to oust, Gordon Johnson and Valerie Vainieri Huttle. While one might question whether they are ultimately the best candidates for the job, there is no doubt that it is in the best interests of District 37 voters to push back against the growing influence of the Democratic party organization, and specifically the boss at the top of it. With Ferriero already having dipped his toe into local affairs over the past year, Teaneck voters should be concerned enough to lead the charge.

UPDATE (Friday, February 2): The Records reports the narrow defeat of the proposed rule change. While county residents may breathe a sigh of relief, it should be a shallow one, as continued vigilance is required to protect the common interest from those seeking to profit from the system.

This is my kind of plan!
- William M. Tweed