The deliberate traffic problems at the George Washington Bridge demonstrates the problems in the Port Authority of NY-NJ and the 1947 NJ State Constitution. Creating an independent Port Authority monopoly means its actions are not subject to review by the legislature. This lack of effective oversight can lead to an abuse of power. If it can’t be reformed it should be abolished.
The 1947 NJ Constitution was designed to create a powerful and autocratic Governor by taking away rights from the people. What other states have followed this bad example? The “line item veto” creates a powerful ruler who can affect the legislature instead of implementing the laws. Unlike most other states NJ does not allow citizens to vote for the County Prosecutor (or District Attorney). An independently elected County Prosecutor would likely have investigated the sabotage right after it happened. The regular election of judges would ensure their independence and fill vacancies when needed.
Power can’t be abused by a Governor or independent agency if they don’t have it.
-Ronald A. Sobieraj
