Bhalla Administration Continues Pattern of Using Taxpayer Resources to Attack Political Foes

HOBOKEN, N.J. — Mayor Ravi Bhalla’s Administration continues to regularly abuse taxpayer funded resources to attack and attempt to discredit his political foes. The most recent attack was made yesterday by City Spokesman Vijay Chaudhuri, who purposely abused his position to spread rumors and false narratives about a Council Member, using his official governmental title. As Hoboken continues to grapple with a budget deficit that is estimated to be as high as $20 million, there is no room for taxpayer dollars to be used in any way other than to the benefit of residents and taxpayers.

“It is shocking to me that in the face of a growing financial crisis in Hoboken, the city spokesman continues his pattern of using his official role to publicly attack City Council Members,” said Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher. “Not only are these actions inappropriate, they are a complete misuse of his public office. Hoboken’s Communications Director is responsible for sharing pertinent and timely information with residents, not commenting on personal or political positions on behalf of the Mayor. If the Mayor chooses to attack Council members, he should do so in his own voice and on his own dime.”

Last year, after Councilwoman Fisher and Council President Jen Giattino were unlawfully removed from City Hall, Chaudhuri authored a completely made up story in the press in an effort to discredit the Councilwomen.  He went as far as falsely accusing Councilwoman Fisher as having an “utter lack of professionalism and meltdown” when the encounter was made public. The administration additionally has a track record of using the city’s emergency alert system to mislead residents about City Council business.

“These abuses of taxpayer-funded positions are unacceptable and only serve to distract from the multi million budget deficit we are facing,” said Councilman Mike DeFusco. “Instead of quietly attempting to raise taxes by 5% without even presenting a budget proposal to the City Council or the public, the administration should be focused on accurately communicating facts and ensuring that every dollar is working solely for the citizenry, not the political ambitions of the Mayor. Speaking out against those in power isn’t always easy, especially when inaccurate personal attacks are the course of action taken by this administration, but I was elected by my neighbors to be an independent voice who takes a stand on important issues.”

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