Transactional politics is the practice of making decisions and forming alliances based on mutual benefits rather than shared principles or values.

Often involves exchanging political support or actions for favors, concessions, or campaign donations. While all politics involves and relies on negotiation and compromise, transactional politics is characterized by a focus on immediate gains rather than long-term goals or the broader public good leading to decisions that prioritize the interests of a few over the needs of the many.  This often comes at the expense of transparency and ethical governance.

In Hoboken, we’ve seen the impact of this firsthand, where decisions made behind closed doors have raised serious concerns. The quid pro quo allegation between Mayor Bhalla and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop regarding the Story Dispensary approvals is a great example.  And with Mayor Bhalla likely leaving office at the end of this term next year, we are seeing rush of developers pushing to get their approvals for outsized developments in from him before he leaves office.  An example is an item on the City Council agenda to start a rezoning process for the block across from the PATH, that is seemingly happening to accommodate a property owner who made large donations to Mayor Bhalla's gubernatorial campaign and wants to build a 20+ story residential tower on a site that currently only allows 6 stories.  To me, our timing of considering any rezoning should be driven by the community's needs - in particular LCOR securing a lease for their commercial building - not catering to a property owner's interest in upsizing their own property.  

As the 2025 Mayor election approaches—what we refer to as "silly season"—staying informed about how these practices might influence our city’s future is more important than ever. Be extra mindful of who is making campaign donations to whom along the way, especially including those who will be running for mayor - whether its Mayor Bhalla or anyone else.  More to come...