WEBVTT 00:00.000 --> 00:01.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> Major funding for "Reporters 00:01.000 --> 00:02.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Roundtable" 00:02.000 --> 00:04.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% is provided by RWJ Barnabas 00:04.566 --> 00:05.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% health, let's be healthy 00:05.200 --> 00:07.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% together. 00:07.800 --> 00:09.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Promotional support provided by 00:09.833 --> 00:12.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% New Jersey business magazine, 00:12.300 --> 00:15.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the magazine of the New Jersey 00:15.233 --> 00:15.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% business Association, reporting 00:15.966 --> 00:20.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to executive and legislative 00:20.266 --> 00:22.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% leaders in all 21 counties of 00:22.066 --> 00:25.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the Garden State since 1954. 00:25.066 --> 00:27.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% And by politicos New Jersey 00:27.933 --> 00:28.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% playbook, online at 00:28.900 --> 00:29.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Politico.com. 00:29.700 --> 00:47.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% ♪ 00:47.500 --> 00:48.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> who did Senator Menendez not 00:48.933 --> 00:49.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% trying to influence in the 00:49.566 --> 00:50.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% interest of his wife and 00:50.166 --> 00:53.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% friends? 00:53.400 --> 00:58.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I'm David Cruz. 00:58.133 --> 00:58.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Our panel champing at the bit to 00:58.866 --> 01:02.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% answer that question. 01:02.300 --> 01:04.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% A health care writer for NJ 01:04.333 --> 01:09.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Spotlight News, a reporter for 01:09.466 --> 01:10.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Politico, and a politics 01:10.066 --> 01:12.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reporter for NJ.com. 01:12.700 --> 01:14.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We will hear from them in just a 01:14.233 --> 01:16.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% moment but we begin today with a 01:16.233 --> 01:19.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% look at the widening scandal 01:19.700 --> 01:20.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% around Senator Bob Menendez. 01:20.433 --> 01:21.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Republicans called for an 01:21.100 --> 01:23.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% investigation into the senator's 01:23.133 --> 01:25.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% alleged reaching out to the 01:25.566 --> 01:27.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% former Attorney General to 01:27.133 --> 01:28.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% influence the outcome of a 01:28.133 --> 01:29.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% criminal case involving one of 01:29.200 --> 01:33.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% his current co-defendants. 01:33.066 --> 01:35.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Anthony Bucha is one of the 01:35.533 --> 01:36.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% signatories to the letter. 01:36.633 --> 01:38.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He joins us now. 01:38.500 --> 01:39.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Welcome back to Reporters 01:39.133 --> 01:39.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Roundtable. 01:39.533 --> 01:41.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% How are you doing? 01:41.766 --> 01:42.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> it's great to be here. 01:42.433 --> 01:45.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Thanks. 01:45.033 --> 01:46.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: the more you read the 01:46.566 --> 01:47.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% indictment, the more it sounds 01:47.500 --> 01:48.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% like a lifetime movie of the 01:48.166 --> 01:51.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% week. 01:51.233 --> 01:52.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Let's try to unpack this 01:52.100 --> 01:54.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% starting with the meeting 01:54.233 --> 01:58.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% between the senator and former 01:58.033 --> 01:58.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Attorney General gray wall or 01:58.966 --> 02:00.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% one of his subordinates. 02:00.400 --> 02:00.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You are a lawyer. 02:00.900 --> 02:06.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's totally inappropriate. 02:06.066 --> 02:07.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> it is. 02:07.266 --> 02:07.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The allegations in this 02:07.866 --> 02:10.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% indictment are disturbing. 02:10.833 --> 02:13.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I don't practice a lot of 02:13.600 --> 02:14.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% criminal law but I can tell you 02:14.933 --> 02:17.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that whenever you are an 02:17.633 --> 02:21.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% attorney or someone who wants to 02:21.300 --> 02:22.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% meet with the prosecutor, they 02:22.300 --> 02:24.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% don't come to your office to sit 02:24.066 --> 02:24.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% down for a private -- private 02:24.766 --> 02:26.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% meeting. 02:26.366 --> 02:28.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You go to the prosecutor's 02:28.300 --> 02:30.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% office and sit down with the 02:30.433 --> 02:33.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% prosecutor or one of the 02:33.733 --> 02:34.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% assistant prosecutors and there 02:34.466 --> 02:36.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% are investigators. 02:36.066 --> 02:38.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% So that the discussions are 02:38.266 --> 02:40.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% known by all as to what took 02:40.733 --> 02:41.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% place in those meetings. 02:41.766 --> 02:48.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Is very disturbing when you have 02:48.233 --> 02:48.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% an Attorney General for this 02:48.900 --> 02:53.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% type of meeting. 02:53.100 --> 02:53.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Christiane: -- David: it doesn't 02:53.800 --> 02:56.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% specifically say that anything 02:56.433 --> 02:57.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% did anyone -- that anyone did 02:57.133 --> 02:59.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% anything wrong. 02:59.033 --> 03:00.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The defendant in that case did 03:00.366 --> 03:03.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% get a better plea deal than the 03:03.400 --> 03:04.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% original offer after the 03:04.000 --> 03:04.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% meetings. 03:04.400 --> 03:05.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's a little suspect, isn't 03:05.166 --> 03:08.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% it? 03:08.500 --> 03:12.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> again, all of these things 03:12.133 --> 03:14.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% combine to get the text we've 03:14.566 --> 03:17.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% seen, some of the allegations 03:17.633 --> 03:19.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that are alleged. 03:19.833 --> 03:24.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% How did we get to that point? 03:24.466 --> 03:27.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% as a caucus and a member of the 03:27.100 --> 03:30.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% judiciary, we are asking the 03:30.733 --> 03:32.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Senate and Judiciary chair to 03:32.833 --> 03:37.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reconvene the judiciary, appoint 03:37.300 --> 03:38.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% an independent counsel, and give 03:38.200 --> 03:39.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% us subpoena powers so we can get 03:39.033 --> 03:42.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to the bottom of this stuff. 03:42.666 --> 03:44.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% People have to have a trust that 03:44.666 --> 03:48.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the Attorney General's office is 03:48.033 --> 03:51.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% operating in the right fashion. 03:51.600 --> 03:54.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We don't know whether or not any 03:54.800 --> 03:55.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of the protocols were breached 03:55.700 --> 03:58.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% or weren't properly followed. 03:58.700 --> 03:59.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I have to tell you, I think some 03:59.766 --> 04:03.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of them probably we were. 04:03.200 --> 04:04.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Especially a private meeting 04:04.933 --> 04:07.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% with the United States Senator 04:07.766 --> 04:08.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% over cases that are currently 04:08.466 --> 04:11.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pending in the office. 04:11.000 --> 04:13.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We don't know whether anybody 04:13.000 --> 04:16.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% was compromised in the office. 04:16.400 --> 04:17.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% There are so many questions that 04:17.300 --> 04:20.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% remain unanswered. 04:20.233 --> 04:22.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think that the public would 04:22.633 --> 04:25.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% feel better having an 04:25.566 --> 04:29.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% independent investigation that 04:29.033 --> 04:29.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% is a bipartisan investigation. 04:29.733 --> 04:30.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Judiciary is made up of 04:30.333 --> 04:33.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Democrats and Republicans. 04:33.366 --> 04:36.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I would even submit that 04:36.933 --> 04:40.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% bringing on a former Democrat 04:40.333 --> 04:41.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% appointed Attorney General and a 04:41.066 --> 04:44.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% former Republican appointed 04:44.233 --> 04:45.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Attorney General could serve as 04:45.933 --> 04:47.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% special counsel together to 04:47.500 --> 04:51.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% assist us in sorting through 04:51.700 --> 04:53.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% this stuff to make sure that 04:53.633 --> 04:56.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% there's nothing out there that's 04:56.766 --> 04:58.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% not being disclosed. 04:58.666 --> 05:04.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Secondly, to give the public 05:04.333 --> 05:05.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% some ease to know that things 05:05.033 --> 05:07.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% are being handled appropriately 05:07.133 --> 05:09.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in the office. 05:09.200 --> 05:09.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% If we need to change some 05:09.833 --> 05:11.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% protocols, this would give us an 05:11.600 --> 05:13.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% opportunity to really look at 05:13.300 --> 05:15.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that to make sure that nothing 05:15.833 --> 05:18.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% like this ever happens again. 05:18.700 --> 05:20.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: what about this fatal 05:20.933 --> 05:23.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% crash involving Nadine Madame 05:23.400 --> 05:26.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Dess -- Menendez? 05:26.800 --> 05:27.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% do you think that this needs 05:27.466 --> 05:31.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% closer examination? 05:31.133 --> 05:32.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I think it does. 05:32.300 --> 05:33.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The Attorney General's office is 05:33.066 --> 05:35.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% starting that investigation. 05:35.900 --> 05:38.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Again, when you look at this 05:38.300 --> 05:41.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% stuff and you hear the dashcam 05:41.766 --> 05:44.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% video and you recognize that her 05:44.300 --> 05:46.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% phone was never turned over to 05:46.133 --> 05:48.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the police. 05:48.966 --> 05:49.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We don't know whether or not 05:49.966 --> 05:53.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% this was a distracted driving 05:53.733 --> 05:55.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% type of incident also. 05:55.533 --> 05:56.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think that protocol in New 05:56.200 --> 05:58.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Jersey is that in a fatal 05:58.533 --> 06:01.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% accident, if there is probable 06:01.666 --> 06:04.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% cause to believe that the driver 06:04.733 --> 06:05.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% may have been impaired, then 06:05.966 --> 06:11.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% they have to do sobriety tests. 06:11.966 --> 06:12.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: none of those are in 06:12.633 --> 06:19.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% evidence at the moment. 06:19.200 --> 06:21.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I would suggest that a fatal 06:21.633 --> 06:23.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% accident in and of itself would 06:23.433 --> 06:27.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% be probable cause for the police 06:27.533 --> 06:30.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to say, let's double check for 06:30.000 --> 06:30.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% alcohol or drugs in this 06:30.600 --> 06:32.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% accident. 06:32.300 --> 06:36.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It would seem to me that that's 06:36.033 --> 06:38.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the way this would be standard 06:38.100 --> 06:38.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% operating procedure for most 06:38.766 --> 06:40.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% police departments. 06:40.666 --> 06:41.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: let's get a panel 06:41.300 --> 06:43.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% question. 06:43.866 --> 06:46.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> on a different topic 06:46.866 --> 06:49.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% entirely, your caucus has raised 06:49.366 --> 06:51.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% a lot of questions about the 06:51.233 --> 06:53.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Murphy administration's handling 06:53.366 --> 06:55.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of the Veterans Affairs, 06:55.733 --> 06:58.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% veterans homes, nursing homes 06:58.600 --> 06:59.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% for veterans during the 06:59.200 --> 07:00.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pandemic. 07:00.966 --> 07:04.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I'm curious if you have any 07:04.033 --> 07:05.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% thoughts on what should be done. 07:05.233 --> 07:07.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We've seen all these reports 07:07.733 --> 07:08.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% about the problems there which 07:08.500 --> 07:09.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% are ongoing. 07:09.200 --> 07:11.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Have you heard from members with 07:11.500 --> 07:12.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% ideas about how to fix these 07:12.166 --> 07:15.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% problems? 07:15.366 --> 07:19.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I understand that a package 07:19.033 --> 07:20.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of bills is being considered and 07:20.100 --> 07:22.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the administration is talking 07:22.566 --> 07:23.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% about splitting oversight into 07:23.266 --> 07:31.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% two different divisions. 07:31.500 --> 07:33.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% So until I get an opportunity to 07:33.666 --> 07:35.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% see that stuff, it's hard to 07:35.200 --> 07:38.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% comment. 07:38.666 --> 07:42.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I can tell you that again, this 07:42.300 --> 07:44.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% report was just really 07:44.566 --> 07:46.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% disturbing in terms of what went 07:46.533 --> 07:47.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% on in these nursing homes. 07:47.766 --> 07:48.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The fact that some of it is 07:48.433 --> 07:51.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% still going on today. 07:51.766 --> 07:54.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I can tell you firsthand that 07:54.133 --> 07:56.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% when this pandemic hit, I 07:56.500 --> 07:57.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% received a call from the mayor 07:57.366 --> 07:59.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in one of my towns in the middle 07:59.033 --> 08:01.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of the night. 08:01.600 --> 08:04.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He was distraught. 08:04.200 --> 08:06.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He said, I have several group 08:06.333 --> 08:11.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% homes in town. 08:11.366 --> 08:16.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The folks that oversee these 08:16.900 --> 08:18.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% group homes were leaving the 08:18.100 --> 08:19.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% residence in the group homes. 08:19.000 --> 08:23.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He said, what can we do. 08:23.833 --> 08:26.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Many of the residents had Covid. 08:26.466 --> 08:27.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% They didn't want to get Covid so 08:27.233 --> 08:32.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% they left. 08:32.200 --> 08:32.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I called the county and I called 08:32.933 --> 08:36.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the state. 08:36.700 --> 08:39.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Essentially what we were told at 08:39.133 --> 08:40.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that time was, look. 08:40.000 --> 08:41.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You will have to handle this 08:41.366 --> 08:43.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% yourself. 08:43.566 --> 08:44.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I just thought that was the 08:44.233 --> 08:46.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% wrong answer. 08:46.466 --> 08:47.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: I have to let you go in a 08:47.200 --> 08:50.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% minute. 08:50.700 --> 08:51.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Elections coming up in the fall. 08:51.800 --> 08:52.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Your party has been controlling 08:52.533 --> 08:55.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the narrative all summer long. 08:55.933 --> 08:56.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Do you think parental 08:56.500 --> 08:59.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% notification and curriculum 08:59.200 --> 09:00.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% concerns are going to be winning 09:00.333 --> 09:03.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% issues for you? 09:03.166 --> 09:03.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% do you think abortion might not 09:03.933 --> 09:08.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% be a winning issue for you? 09:08.566 --> 09:09.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I certainly think those 09:09.200 --> 09:09.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% kitchen table issues are going 09:09.900 --> 09:12.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to be important. 09:12.500 --> 09:15.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We saw that two years ago. 09:15.433 --> 09:18.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think the parental rights 09:18.800 --> 09:21.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% situation and those things 09:21.066 --> 09:21.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% dealing with schools are 09:21.666 --> 09:25.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% critically important to parents. 09:25.066 --> 09:26.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% So I do think that it's going to 09:26.633 --> 09:27.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% play a major role in the 09:27.233 --> 09:29.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% selection. 09:29.000 --> 09:32.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: abortion not so much? 09:32.466 --> 09:33.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I don't think that's on the 09:33.233 --> 09:35.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% top of people's minds. 09:35.566 --> 09:36.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We aren't seeing that when we 09:36.300 --> 09:41.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% are knocking on doors. 09:41.700 --> 09:44.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I have to tell you, even in my 09:44.033 --> 09:46.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% caucus, I have folks that are 09:46.433 --> 09:49.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pro-life, pro-life with 09:49.200 --> 09:49.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% exceptions, and I've got 09:49.833 --> 09:52.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pro-choice people. 09:52.933 --> 09:56.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% So I don't see this as a major 09:56.500 --> 09:58.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% issue where people need to be 09:58.000 --> 09:58.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% concerned about what's going to 09:58.800 --> 09:59.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% happen if there's a shift in 09:59.500 --> 10:02.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% power. 10:02.533 --> 10:03.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think people are more 10:03.133 --> 10:04.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% concerned with their quality of 10:04.533 --> 10:07.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% life. 10:07.533 --> 10:09.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Recent polls show that people 10:09.000 --> 10:11.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% feel their quality of life is 10:11.200 --> 10:15.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% not improving, it's declining. 10:15.000 --> 10:17.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's a result of crime, people 10:17.233 --> 10:19.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% stealing cars out of driveways. 10:19.366 --> 10:20.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It's a result of the attorney 10:20.100 --> 10:23.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% general interfering with parents 10:23.733 --> 10:25.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% ability to raise their children 10:25.366 --> 10:27.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% and have information delivered 10:27.166 --> 10:27.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% from their schools on what their 10:27.900 --> 10:31.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% kids are doing. 10:31.700 --> 10:32.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think that when you look at 10:32.566 --> 10:34.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the Murphy administration 10:34.233 --> 10:36.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% approached all of these issues 10:36.500 --> 10:39.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% and the Democrat leadership 10:39.066 --> 10:41.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% refusal to check some of these 10:41.766 --> 10:45.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% progressive policies, I think 10:45.300 --> 10:46.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that will play a major part in 10:46.233 --> 10:47.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% this election and I think our 10:47.900 --> 10:51.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% party is ready to bring the 10:51.500 --> 10:52.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% state back to the center again 10:52.200 --> 10:54.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% where I think a majority of 10:54.566 --> 10:55.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% residents, that's where they are 10:55.333 --> 10:58.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% at. 10:58.033 --> 11:01.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: we shall see. 11:01.400 --> 11:02.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Tony Bucha, good to see you. 11:02.200 --> 11:11.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Things were coming on with us. 11:11.366 --> 11:12.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: let's start with 11:12.000 --> 11:12.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Menendez. 11:12.666 --> 11:18.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% What you make of this reporting 11:18.566 --> 11:19.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% on the Menendez meeting. 11:19.900 --> 11:20.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I'm not a lawyer but it seems 11:20.633 --> 11:23.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% inappropriate. 11:23.600 --> 11:24.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% There's an internal 11:24.166 --> 11:26.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% investigation going on now. 11:26.466 --> 11:28.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The judge throughout another 11:28.433 --> 11:30.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% sweetheart deal from another 11:30.400 --> 11:32.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Menendez codefendant. 11:32.633 --> 11:34.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Starting to see a trend here? 11:34.933 --> 11:38.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> definitely a trend. 11:38.233 --> 11:40.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% If nobody proves that this was a 11:40.666 --> 11:41.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% legal, it is certainly 11:41.233 --> 11:44.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% unethical. 11:44.866 --> 11:45.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The fact that the prosecutors, 11:45.566 --> 11:49.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the fact that the U.S. attorney 11:49.933 --> 11:52.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% met with 1 -- Menendez, it was 11:52.233 --> 11:52.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% made very clear to him that 11:52.900 --> 11:53.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Menendez wants this guy to get 11:53.900 --> 11:57.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% off. 11:57.366 --> 11:58.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The indictment takes pains to 11:58.400 --> 11:59.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% go, nothing inappropriate 11:59.033 --> 12:01.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% happened. 12:01.300 --> 12:02.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We've been talking about the 12:02.666 --> 12:03.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Attorney General but let's talk 12:03.800 --> 12:04.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% about the U.S. attorney for a 12:04.500 --> 12:05.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% second. 12:05.733 --> 12:06.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The developer was facing 14 12:06.400 --> 12:08.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% counts. 12:08.400 --> 12:13.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Years and years in prison. 12:13.466 --> 12:15.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% After all this, Menendez pushing 12:15.300 --> 12:17.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% so hard on this guy, he works 12:17.366 --> 12:20.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% out a plea deal to one count of 12:20.133 --> 12:20.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% bank fraud and he's going to get 12:20.900 --> 12:21.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% probation. 12:21.266 --> 12:23.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Doesn't that wreak? 12:23.500 --> 12:25.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% are we supposed to set here and 12:25.000 --> 12:29.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% be, no questions. 12:29.766 --> 12:32.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Come on. 12:32.333 --> 12:36.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: it's the same deal with 12:36.333 --> 12:38.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the other who was also facing a 12:38.933 --> 12:39.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% tougher plea deal and got a 12:39.600 --> 12:42.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% better plea deal afterwards. 12:42.800 --> 12:46.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Usually the reverse is the case. 12:46.066 --> 12:47.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> The fact that the prosecutors 12:47.633 --> 12:50.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% met with Menendez. 12:50.400 --> 12:52.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Look, I understand that there's 12:52.300 --> 12:53.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% a lot of factors at play here 12:53.000 --> 12:55.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% and we are all human. 12:55.100 --> 12:59.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% But prosecutors told everyone 12:59.266 --> 13:00.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% else, normal people to a pretty 13:00.100 --> 13:01.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% high standard. 13:01.033 --> 13:01.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% To the standard of the law. 13:01.700 --> 13:04.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Ethics. 13:04.233 --> 13:08.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think if you have a senator 13:08.466 --> 13:10.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pressuring you very clearly, 13:10.400 --> 13:11.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% these are allegations. 13:11.133 --> 13:13.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% If you do have the senator 13:13.933 --> 13:15.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pressuring you and it's likely 13:15.100 --> 13:17.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that they told prosecutors who 13:17.233 --> 13:18.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% he was, why didn't you report it 13:18.000 --> 13:20.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% or do something about it? 13:20.566 --> 13:22.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% this is not the time that I 13:22.466 --> 13:22.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% would want. 13:22.866 --> 13:25.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Blow the whistle. 13:25.766 --> 13:29.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: you also did some digging 13:29.900 --> 13:30.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% into Nadine Menendez's driving 13:30.633 --> 13:31.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% record. 13:31.000 --> 13:31.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% What did you find out and how 13:31.700 --> 13:36.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% does that tie into the case? 13:36.300 --> 13:37.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I can tell you that she had 13:37.000 --> 13:37.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% two charges. 13:37.400 --> 13:39.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% One was resolved with some kind 13:39.566 --> 13:40.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of plea that I can't tell for 13:40.300 --> 13:42.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% sure. 13:42.800 --> 13:43.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Driving while using her cell 13:43.466 --> 13:48.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% phone. 13:48.366 --> 13:49.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Now that's -- people don't get 13:49.133 --> 13:52.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% it. 13:52.566 --> 13:53.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% To be pulled over twice like 13:53.700 --> 13:55.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that raises questions. 13:55.866 --> 13:57.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It raises questions of, we don't 13:57.133 --> 13:57.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% know about whether they fully 13:57.833 --> 14:00.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pursued that phone. 14:00.766 --> 14:01.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I would think if you have two 14:01.466 --> 14:06.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% charges on your record for using 14:06.266 --> 14:08.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% a handheld cell phone, 14:08.300 --> 14:10.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% and you hit and kill a guy come 14:10.600 --> 14:12.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% even if he is jaywalking, that 14:12.533 --> 14:13.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% is certainly an avenue worth 14:13.200 --> 14:15.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pursuing. 14:15.966 --> 14:16.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% One thing that is lost about 14:16.900 --> 14:19.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% this is, this was in pagoda. 14:19.666 --> 14:20.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It doesn't look like this was on 14:20.433 --> 14:22.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% a major highway. 14:22.633 --> 14:27.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I know it's all separate issue. 14:27.233 --> 14:30.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% How fast was she driving? 14:30.566 --> 14:33.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% we need to talk about how we 14:33.000 --> 14:33.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% prioritize drivers over 14:33.600 --> 14:36.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% pedestrians in this culture. 14:36.166 --> 14:36.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It's not just this. 14:36.733 --> 14:39.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It's everywhere. 14:39.000 --> 14:39.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It gets ridiculous after a 14:39.633 --> 14:44.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% while. 14:44.300 --> 14:44.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% In five minutes, the cops 14:44.933 --> 14:45.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% determine, the pedestrian is at 14:45.666 --> 14:51.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% fault. 14:51.166 --> 14:51.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: this face -- case feels 14:51.866 --> 14:53.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% like Bridgegate. 14:53.633 --> 14:54.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Details are starting to drip 14:54.233 --> 14:56.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% out. 14:56.333 --> 14:58.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Did you get a sense that there 14:58.000 --> 15:00.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% might be a strategy on Mrs. 15:00.800 --> 15:04.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Menendez? 15:04.366 --> 15:05.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> someone suggested that to me 15:05.100 --> 15:07.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% early on. 15:07.500 --> 15:09.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I have no knowledge and I 15:09.133 --> 15:09.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% haven't been reporting on that 15:09.866 --> 15:13.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% part of the story. 15:13.800 --> 15:17.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think that the traffic 15:17.700 --> 15:20.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% incident, the death, it's a 15:20.400 --> 15:21.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% fatal crash, really raises a lot 15:21.933 --> 15:25.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of questions. 15:25.900 --> 15:26.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Clearly misses Menendez was 15:26.566 --> 15:26.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% speeding. 15:26.933 --> 15:28.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% There was no doubt about that. 15:28.933 --> 15:31.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% My understanding from people who 15:31.200 --> 15:32.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% live there is that there's 15:32.766 --> 15:34.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% nowhere you can be going 40 or 15:34.633 --> 15:35.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% 50 miles per hour like that and 15:35.366 --> 15:39.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% she was. 15:39.666 --> 15:40.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Richard Koop, he is important to 15:40.400 --> 15:43.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% remember. 15:43.300 --> 15:44.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He was getting out of a new 15:44.000 --> 15:47.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% brand going into his house. 15:47.133 --> 15:48.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Maybe he was crossing the 15:48.233 --> 15:48.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% street. 15:48.566 --> 15:49.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It wasn't like he was wandering 15:49.333 --> 15:51.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% around the street. 15:51.933 --> 15:52.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% There are a lot of questions 15:52.600 --> 15:55.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% about this. 15:55.333 --> 15:57.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's 100% right. 15:57.266 --> 15:59.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Many things we need to know 15:59.433 --> 16:03.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% about that particular incident. 16:03.133 --> 16:05.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: Brent Menendez made some 16:05.400 --> 16:06.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% telling comments on Wednesday 16:06.133 --> 16:08.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% about how he would never 16:08.800 --> 16:12.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% jeopardize a New Jersey seat. 16:12.600 --> 16:13.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Saying, when I make that 16:13.200 --> 16:16.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% decision about running a free 16:16.300 --> 16:17.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% election, I will announce it. 16:17.000 --> 16:17.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He didn't say, I'm definitely 16:17.800 --> 16:19.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% running. 16:19.233 --> 16:19.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Anything we should read into 16:19.900 --> 16:24.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that? 16:24.033 --> 16:25.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> that's the big question. 16:25.433 --> 16:27.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He has refused to resign. 16:27.133 --> 16:28.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% One thought is that he is biding 16:28.200 --> 16:29.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% his time in trying to continue 16:29.033 --> 16:31.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to raise money for his legal 16:31.200 --> 16:32.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% defense fund while staying in 16:32.233 --> 16:35.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% office which is easier to do. 16:35.300 --> 16:37.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Maybe we will get a decision 16:37.633 --> 16:38.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% from him in April or March as we 16:38.600 --> 16:39.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% get closer to the primary filing 16:39.333 --> 16:42.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% deadline. 16:42.400 --> 16:43.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's the big question 16:43.033 --> 16:45.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% politically. 16:45.666 --> 16:46.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% If he's going to leave, when 16:46.366 --> 16:48.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% he's going to leave. 16:48.300 --> 16:50.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Those comments were little more 16:50.233 --> 16:51.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% measured than things he had said 16:51.000 --> 16:52.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in recent weeks. 16:52.800 --> 16:55.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I heard someone say recently 16:55.066 --> 16:57.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that, what's different about 16:57.733 --> 16:59.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% this case is that when he was 16:59.966 --> 17:01.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% charged a few years ago it was a 17:01.000 --> 17:03.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% bit more murky and difficult to 17:03.966 --> 17:04.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% understand, that the citizens 17:04.666 --> 17:05.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% may not fully grasp all the 17:05.333 --> 17:09.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% details. 17:09.266 --> 17:11.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% This seems a lot more obvious. 17:11.133 --> 17:11.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The allegations seem a lot 17:11.766 --> 17:13.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% stronger. 17:13.800 --> 17:14.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% This feels like a different 17:14.466 --> 17:17.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% situation this time. 17:17.133 --> 17:17.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> Normal work of a 17:17.666 --> 17:19.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% congressional office. 17:19.833 --> 17:22.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Meeting with prosecutors to try 17:22.233 --> 17:25.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to get it developed. 17:25.600 --> 17:26.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Sounds like normal work of a 17:26.266 --> 17:28.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% congressional office to me. 17:28.033 --> 17:30.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think everything is fine. 17:30.400 --> 17:31.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: it seems unlikely that he 17:31.133 --> 17:34.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% will resign. 17:34.000 --> 17:34.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Not so certain that he won't run 17:34.766 --> 17:36.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% . 17:36.866 --> 17:39.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% In this case, is it Andy Kim's 17:39.600 --> 17:42.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% race to lose? 17:42.200 --> 17:44.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> we have to see what happens 17:44.433 --> 17:45.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% with Tammy Murphy. 17:45.200 --> 17:46.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Certainly the early polling from 17:46.800 --> 17:48.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% groups that are sympathetic to 17:48.666 --> 17:49.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Kim show him with a commanding 17:49.366 --> 17:52.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% lead. 17:52.366 --> 17:55.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He stepped out. 17:55.166 --> 17:58.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think he knew where the bosses 17:58.433 --> 17:59.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% would try to go and figured, 17:59.233 --> 18:00.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% they will not go with me so it's 18:00.466 --> 18:01.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% time that I get out there a 18:01.133 --> 18:02.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% little bit. 18:02.866 --> 18:03.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: what about the 18:03.433 --> 18:06.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Republicans? 18:06.466 --> 18:07.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> with Menendez not in the 18:07.166 --> 18:09.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% race, a chance of the 18:09.066 --> 18:09.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Republicans winning this are so 18:09.800 --> 18:15.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% small. 18:15.166 --> 18:15.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% If Menendez is the nominee, then 18:15.900 --> 18:20.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% it's a competitive race. 18:20.000 --> 18:22.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Without him, it goes status quo. 18:22.700 --> 18:24.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I don't think New Jersey voters 18:24.500 --> 18:27.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% will punish the entire party. 18:27.866 --> 18:28.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% When you consider that most of 18:28.766 --> 18:29.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the people calling for Menendez 18:29.833 --> 18:33.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to leave office are Democrats. 18:33.600 --> 18:35.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I would like to point out, with 18:35.900 --> 18:37.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the Attorney General stuff, I 18:37.533 --> 18:38.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% wish I could say that 18:38.100 --> 18:38.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Republicans motivations here are 18:38.833 --> 18:41.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% clear. 18:41.366 --> 18:42.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% They are clearly -- I don't 18:42.600 --> 18:43.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% regret them it offered calling 18:43.300 --> 18:45.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% for this investigation. 18:45.733 --> 18:46.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think these are issues that 18:46.433 --> 18:49.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% need to be investigated. 18:49.433 --> 18:50.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I don't want to be like, but 18:50.166 --> 18:52.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Trump. 18:52.600 --> 18:58.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We do have a Former President 18:58.233 --> 18:59.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% who called an election official 18:59.466 --> 19:00.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in Georgia and tried to get him 19:00.266 --> 19:02.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% to overturn the election. 19:02.733 --> 19:03.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I know that's directly impacting 19:03.500 --> 19:06.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% New Jersey. 19:06.800 --> 19:08.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I haven't heard many Republicans 19:08.800 --> 19:09.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% say that that deserves 19:09.366 --> 19:13.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% prosecution. 19:13.000 --> 19:14.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% A lot of the ones out there, 19:14.933 --> 19:16.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% they are joining the rest of the 19:16.066 --> 19:16.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% national party in implying that 19:16.833 --> 19:17.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the presidents prosecution is 19:17.533 --> 19:21.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% political. 19:21.400 --> 19:22.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Why is this a legitimate means 19:22.100 --> 19:24.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of inquiry? 19:24.800 --> 19:25.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% think about the Former 19:25.366 --> 19:28.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% President. 19:28.000 --> 19:29.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I'm a reporter. 19:29.633 --> 19:30.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I can stand from the outside. 19:30.733 --> 19:33.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's my job. 19:33.200 --> 19:34.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I know politics is complicated. 19:34.166 --> 19:37.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Motives aren't always peer. 19:37.466 --> 19:38.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I would certainly like to see a 19:38.933 --> 19:41.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% equal application of the law. 19:41.466 --> 19:44.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: I have to get in some 19:44.900 --> 19:48.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% conversation about the bad news 19:48.866 --> 19:52.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that's coming to local press. 19:52.933 --> 19:54.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We saw layoffs at news 12 New 19:54.466 --> 19:56.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Jersey this week. 19:56.900 --> 19:58.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Also at WNYC. 19:58.433 --> 19:59.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's coming on the heels of 19:59.400 --> 20:04.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% layoffs at entry.com. 20:04.033 --> 20:07.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% What is your sense of what's 20:07.666 --> 20:12.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% next for local news? 20:12.000 --> 20:14.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> yeah. 20:14.733 --> 20:18.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think it was Matt who said in 20:18.133 --> 20:19.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% his newsletter that, when they 20:19.766 --> 20:21.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% say we are corporate 20:21.733 --> 20:22.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% restructuring, rethinking this, 20:22.466 --> 20:24.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% and then you are taking away 20:24.500 --> 20:25.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reporters, the math doesn't 20:25.466 --> 20:28.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% work. 20:28.266 --> 20:31.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% There's no way taking away 20:31.600 --> 20:35.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% people leads to better coverage. 20:35.766 --> 20:39.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You know, it's really troubling. 20:39.800 --> 20:42.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Alex at news 12 was one of those 20:42.500 --> 20:43.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% people who really went after the 20:43.600 --> 20:46.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% administration during COVID. 20:46.366 --> 20:47.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Sometimes it was wearisome for 20:47.066 --> 20:51.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% other reporters. 20:51.833 --> 20:52.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We weren't in the same frame of 20:52.600 --> 20:53.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% mind. 20:53.833 --> 20:56.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% To be honest -- 20:56.200 --> 20:56.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: we weren't all in the 20:56.900 --> 20:59.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% same headspace. 20:59.400 --> 21:01.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> right. 21:01.066 --> 21:01.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% To be honest, that's what 21:01.733 --> 21:04.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reporters are here to do. 21:04.000 --> 21:05.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We are there to ask questions 21:05.900 --> 21:08.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that are being raised by people 21:08.000 --> 21:08.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in the community come in the 21:08.666 --> 21:10.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% world. 21:10.533 --> 21:11.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The people that these officials 21:11.266 --> 21:12.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% represent. 21:12.733 --> 21:13.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We are supposed to be their 21:13.400 --> 21:15.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% voice. 21:15.800 --> 21:16.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The fewer of us there are, the 21:16.500 --> 21:19.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% harder that becomes. 21:19.233 --> 21:21.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We have some young reporters 21:21.633 --> 21:23.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% coming up through report for 21:23.200 --> 21:23.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% America on the spotlight team. 21:23.900 --> 21:27.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It's great. 21:27.033 --> 21:28.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% But we need legions of them. 21:28.266 --> 21:33.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We need everybody. 21:33.566 --> 21:34.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We need more bodies. 21:34.100 --> 21:36.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's all. 21:36.466 --> 21:37.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: especially with 21:37.033 --> 21:44.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% elections. 21:44.366 --> 21:45.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Good for the corrupt and the 21:45.033 --> 21:45.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% scoundrels come about for the 21:45.733 --> 21:48.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% public, right? 21:48.233 --> 21:48.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> especially troubling at the 21:48.933 --> 21:51.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% local level. 21:51.700 --> 21:52.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You don't have reporters at 21:52.400 --> 21:54.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% County commission meetings most 21:54.666 --> 21:55.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of the time unless they know 21:55.333 --> 21:56.066 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% there's a big issue that will 21:56.066 --> 21:57.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% come. 21:57.900 --> 21:58.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You don't have the regular beat 21:58.666 --> 22:01.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reporter who is going to the 22:01.333 --> 22:01.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% meeting, not expecting 22:01.900 --> 22:02.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% everything, just paying 22:02.500 --> 22:04.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% attention. 22:04.100 --> 22:06.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We are OK on the state level. 22:06.900 --> 22:07.900 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We are better than a lot of 22:07.900 --> 22:10.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% states in terms of the number of 22:10.833 --> 22:11.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reporters we have, dwindling as 22:11.566 --> 22:12.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% it is. 22:12.233 --> 22:14.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think we have more than enough 22:14.866 --> 22:15.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% reporters in Congress and the 22:15.566 --> 22:17.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% White House. 22:17.833 --> 22:19.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% What really matters most to 22:19.933 --> 22:21.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% people, the things that directly 22:21.266 --> 22:22.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% affect their lives the most are 22:22.000 --> 22:22.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% what happens on the most local 22:22.700 --> 22:27.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% level. 22:27.700 --> 22:28.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: small commissions of -- 22:28.400 --> 22:28.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% commissions. 22:28.800 --> 22:34.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% All of that stuff. 22:34.766 --> 22:35.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> some lamb belongs to our 22:35.633 --> 22:36.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% civic culture. 22:36.600 --> 22:37.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Not just the media companies and 22:37.333 --> 22:40.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% not just greed. 22:40.266 --> 22:42.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% But if people were interested in 22:42.000 --> 22:43.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% their local government, which 22:43.933 --> 22:45.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% they should be, than there would 22:45.866 --> 22:46.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% be more demand for coverage and 22:46.600 --> 22:50.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% more money there. 22:50.533 --> 22:51.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Some of it, we have ourselves to 22:51.266 --> 22:52.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% blame unfortunately. 22:52.166 --> 22:54.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It's complicated. 22:54.000 --> 22:58.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: go ahead. 22:58.200 --> 22:58.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> I was going to say, I see the 22:58.933 --> 23:00.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% same thing. 23:00.700 --> 23:01.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I think people want to know, 23:01.933 --> 23:02.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% where did that come from and why 23:02.666 --> 23:04.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% is it on the corner? 23:04.733 --> 23:05.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% what a stupid place to put a 23:05.400 --> 23:07.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% drugstore. 23:07.833 --> 23:10.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Had you gone to the planning 23:10.533 --> 23:11.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% board, you know. 23:11.700 --> 23:12.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% People don't have time for that. 23:12.466 --> 23:16.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% It's complicated. 23:16.433 --> 23:17.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: it's time for our only in 23:17.300 --> 23:18.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Jersey segment. 23:18.100 --> 23:19.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Headlines and notes that are 23:19.700 --> 23:20.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% quintessentially Jersey. 23:20.300 --> 23:24.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You have one? 23:24.266 --> 23:27.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> give it to David Weinstein at 23:27.766 --> 23:30.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% New Jersey globe for the story 23:30.633 --> 23:31.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% of a guy named Joe Viso who was 23:31.400 --> 23:34.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% running for assembly in the 36th 23:34.100 --> 23:35.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% district, the outlier of a huge 23:35.866 --> 23:40.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Republican wave district. 23:40.500 --> 23:41.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% This guy has a pretty extensive 23:41.233 --> 23:43.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% criminal record. 23:43.933 --> 23:44.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The thing he unearthed is that 23:44.800 --> 23:46.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in some dispute with a 23:46.700 --> 23:49.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% neighboring daycare center, he 23:49.233 --> 23:54.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% smeared feces on the door. 23:54.166 --> 23:55.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He said he was very upset at the 23:55.033 --> 23:56.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% time. 23:56.700 --> 23:57.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% He doesn't excuse what he did 23:57.566 --> 24:00.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% but Obama had just been elected. 24:00.833 --> 24:04.466 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Thanks Obama. 24:04.466 --> 24:06.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Christiane: you have -- David: 24:06.033 --> 24:07.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% you have one? 24:07.600 --> 24:10.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> yes. 24:10.133 --> 24:10.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% When Taylor Swift came to New 24:10.833 --> 24:13.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Jersey the other day. 24:13.866 --> 24:14.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% A lot of people were referencing 24:14.733 --> 24:19.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% that she was coming to New York. 24:19.166 --> 24:19.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I'm to be said, that's actually 24:19.966 --> 24:25.366 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% in New Jersey. 24:25.366 --> 24:29.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Thank you MTV. 24:29.633 --> 24:30.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I would like to ask them to 24:30.300 --> 24:31.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% bring back music videos for an 24:31.000 --> 24:34.133 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% hour each day. 24:34.133 --> 24:34.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: good luck with that one. 24:34.866 --> 24:37.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> Never going to happen. 24:37.933 --> 24:38.566 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% David: mine comes from the 24:38.566 --> 24:39.200 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% precarious world of local 24:39.200 --> 24:43.933 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% journalism. 24:43.933 --> 24:46.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Local journalism is under attack 24:46.733 --> 24:47.833 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% by economic forces for sure. 24:47.833 --> 24:50.166 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% But it's also being pushed to 24:50.166 --> 24:52.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% the sidelines by elected 24:52.433 --> 24:54.966 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% officials who ignore, avoid, and 24:54.966 --> 24:57.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% otherwise circumvent the 24:57.633 --> 24:58.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% critical gaze of journalists 24:58.300 --> 25:00.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% doing their jobs. 25:00.733 --> 25:01.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I'm looking at you, Tom Kim 25:01.433 --> 25:03.800 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Junior. 25:03.800 --> 25:05.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% I don't blame them. 25:05.666 --> 25:07.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% The fact is that you watching us 25:07.300 --> 25:09.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% right now have the 25:09.333 --> 25:11.033 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% responsibility to demand 25:11.033 --> 25:11.633 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% accountability from all 25:11.633 --> 25:13.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% politicians. 25:13.700 --> 25:16.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% When what you know about your 25:16.433 --> 25:19.100 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Congressman comes from that 25:19.100 --> 25:19.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Congressman's PR people, 25:19.733 --> 25:21.300 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% whatever party, you are not 25:21.300 --> 25:24.333 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% getting news, you are getting 25:24.333 --> 25:24.766 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% propaganda. 25:24.766 --> 25:28.533 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Nowadays especially, it's up to 25:28.533 --> 25:29.233 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% you to know the difference and 25:29.233 --> 25:31.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% act accordingly. 25:31.400 --> 25:34.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% That's roundtable for this week. 25:34.866 --> 25:35.866 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Good to see you all. 25:35.866 --> 25:36.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Thanks also to Senator Bucha for 25:36.600 --> 25:40.700 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% joining us. 25:40.700 --> 25:42.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% You can follow the show on X and 25:42.733 --> 25:44.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% get more exclusive content 25:44.266 --> 25:46.000 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% including full episodes when you 25:46.000 --> 25:51.733 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% scan the QR code on your screen. 25:51.733 --> 25:52.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Thanks for watching. 25:52.266 --> 25:54.666 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% We will see you next week. 25:54.666 --> 25:56.600 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% >> Major funding for Reporters 25:56.600 --> 26:00.400 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Roundtable is provided by -- 26:00.400 --> 26:01.266 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% RWJ Barnabas health, let's be 26:01.266 --> 26:04.500 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% healthy together. 26:04.500 --> 26:07.433 align:left position:10% line:71% size:80% Promotional support provided by 26:07.433 --> 26:08.666 align:left position:10% line:71% 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