Kids First Is Without Integrity

Hoboken School Board Candidates Ignore Election Integrity Pledge

The Kid’s First Slate lacks integrity.  They ignored a letter requesting comment on the actions of Hoboken “Republican” Chair, Joseph Branco and a request to sign an Election Integrity Pledge to keep our local elections safe and free from developer money.  I will NOT vote for any of the Kid’s First candidates and ask voters to only consider the other 5 candidates in this year’s Hoboken School Board election.

As a Hoboken Housing Authority Commissioner I’m closely watching the election for signs of corruption.  HHA residents are served by our public school system.  Approximately two weeks ago, I invited all candidates to sign a 7-Point Election Integrity Pledge.  The Kids First Slate is the only candidates who ignored the letter.

Unfortunately, shady developers have a history of corrupting Hoboken elections.  Mr. Branco’s involvement as either a Republican or a Democrat is unclear; and less relevant than his connection to corrupt officials such as former HHA Executive Director Carmelo Garcia who is presently under federal indictment.  Ignoring the election integrity pledge is a red flag! 

What’s the connection between the HHA and Mr. Garcia?  The answer is Kids First’s campaign manager.  Does Branco remember when he threatened to find out where I live, how much money I make, and demanded that if I didn’t vote to keep Garcia around as Executive Director; then he’d take everything I own?  Does Branco regret his time bullying commissioners into supporting Mr. Garcia?

And on November 5th, 2019, I will never forget Branco jumping out of a black SUV at my polling station trying to stop me from voting in an election.  For most people voting is simple; but I had to fight for my right to vote that day.  The incident is documented with both law enforcement and the Hudson County Board of Elections.  And, to the credit of HCBE Observers; when Branco approached me; the Observers called over a police officer and stopped him.  I wish I could tell people not to worry if you don’t vote for Branco’s candidates, but then again do I know if Branco is going to jump out of another car to stop me from voting again?

I wish all of that was in the past; but for over a year Branco has tried bullying me into handing over proprietary information for a social media platform I created.  Does Branco remember a few short weeks ago when he ambushed me at the Governor’s Housing conference demanding I give him the platform?  Why does Branco feel that he can shake me down like a school yard bully demanding milk money?  How many times do I have to stand up to this bully?  Why does Kid’s First remain silent and standing with their campaign manager?

Kid’s First is run by someone who has threatened me on multiple occasions.  The Kid’s First candidates refuse to comment.  Therefore, I refuse to vote for Kids First and respectfully ask my community for support.  Please cast a vote for anyone else.

Thank you,

James Sanford

HHA Commissioner