New Jersey politics is never boring, but the current landscape is especially tumultuous. With corruption scandals, contentious elections, and policy battles raging, the Garden State is living up to its reputation for drama and intrigue. Yet, amidst all the chaos, one prominent figure is conspicuously absent: Senator Cory Booker.
Booker, once a rising star in the Democratic Party and a fixture on the national stage, has been noticeably quiet in recent months. His absence has not gone unnoticed, with many in the state’s political circles wondering what’s behind his relative silence.
Some speculate that Booker is laying low due to the intense scrutiny he faced during his failed 2020 presidential bid. Despite his charisma and policy chops, Booker’s campaign struggled to gain traction, and he eventually dropped out of the race. Since then, he’s kept a lower profile, focusing on his work in the Senate and avoiding the spotlight.
Others believe Booker deliberately keeps a distance from the state’s messy political scene. With corruption investigations ongoing and several high-profile Democrats facing ethics charges, New Jersey politics is not for the faint of heart. By staying out of the fray, Booker may be trying to protect his reputation and avoid getting dragged into the muck.
But Booker’s absence is felt, particularly in the state’s urban areas, where he once enjoyed strong support. His advocacy on issues like criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and education resonated with many voters, and his presence was a stabilizing force in a state often plagued by political instability.
“Cory Booker was a voice for our community, and his absence is deeply felt,” said Newark City Councilor, Shanique Davis. “We need his leadership and passion now more than ever, and his silence is deafening.”
Booker’s office has pushed back against criticism, insisting that he remains committed to New Jersey and is working tirelessly on behalf of his constituents. They point to his continued advocacy on key issues and his support for local initiatives as evidence of his ongoing engagement.
Still, the perception persists that Booker is disconnected from the state he represents. As New Jersey politics continues to simmer, many are left wondering when – or if – Cory Booker will return to the forefront and reclaim his role as a leader in the state’s political landscape
