Local politicians react to visit
By:Michelle Ruess
In case you weren’t invited, President Bill Clinton visited Hopewell Township this week to bolster the campaign warchest of hometown Democrat Rep. Rush Holt.
The president was scheduled to sip wine, enjoy jazz music and mingle with up to 300 Holt supporters paying $1,000-per-person for the fund-raiser at the farm of Robert and Lisa Stockman.
And while the event was not open to the public, several local politicos considered it historic anyway. Indeed, residents could not recall another presidential visit.
"It’s big news in Hopewell," said Mayor Marylou Ferrara. "We don’t get a lot of excitement here; we’re a sleepy little town. But we’re happy to wake up every now and then."
While Mayor Ferrara was a bit leery about the impact of the president’s visit on local traffic patterns, she welcomed the recognition.
"It is the office of the president of the United States," said Mayor Ferrara, a Democrat who planned to attend. "The reason to be excited is that the president is coming."
Michael Kahme, municipal chairman of the Democratic Committee, also planned to join the festivities.
"It’s nice that the area gets the attention," Mr. Kahme said. "I’m happy the president would take time out of his day to come here."
Acknowledging President Clinton’s tenure has been marked by controversy, Mr. Kahme said the past eight years also have been a time of unprecedented economic growth and peace for our country.
"I think he’s been a good president," Mr. Kahme said.
Even John Hart Jr. welcomed President Clinton – although not in person.
Mr. Hart’s farm field is adjacent to the Stockman property, putting the Republican committeeman literally and figuratively "on the other side of the fence."
Mr. Hart is supporting Republican Dick Zimmer, a former congressman who lives in Hunterdon County.
"I think it’s a great honor," Mr. Hart said. "I wish he was coming to endorse my candidate."