It's a terrible shame that, at the Chamber of Commerce Candidates Forum, two Teaneck Council members (who are running for re-election) verbally attacked candidate Jason Castle. The tone of that attack on an African-American candidate was disgraceful. What had Jason done that was so awful? Jason insisted that there be transparency on the Town Council, that minutes of Council meetings be available to the public in a timely manner, that there should be a budget on time and available for public input, and that there be real public workshop sessions again.
Last year, the same Council members uninvited Jason, a Marine, to be the speaker at Teaneck's Memorial Day ceremonies. It was clear back then that they didn't want people questioning the transparency of the Council and township manager. Only public protest (and an editorial in the Record) forced the Council to re-invite Jason.
It leaves us wondering who is spreading false rumors about Jason’s military service. It leaves us wondering why some attack Jason because he rents a home rather than owns a home for his family.
Find out what's happening in Teaneckwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Trying to silence dissent is reminiscent of the McCarthy era. Thank you, Jason, for your courage in sticking up for democracy. I urge Teaneck residents to say YES to democracy! Vote on May 13 for Jason Castle, Alan Sohn, and Lizette Parker.
Paula Rogovin
