Munchmobile

The NJ Coalition Against Sexual Assault conducted a poll revealing 57% of the 500 lobbyists, elected officials and operatives who participated said they had experienced harassment in politics. 2/9

Very little, we were told by more than 20 people we interviewed. Few who shared stories of harassment and misconduct said they filed complaints because they believe they would have jeopardized their careers and faced retaliation. 4/9

Most requested anonymity — and we granted it because it is worth telling their stories, lest people believe the problems no longer exist. Two women said they were raped. 5/9

Several said they were kissed and touched without consent. One state lawmaker and former mayor described the online harassment she endured over her appearance. Most said they quit campaigns and work in the private sector, where they still interact with government officials. 6/9

Everyone agreed electing more women is critical to challenging this toxic culture. “I have said, sarcastically, it is the audacity of women,” said Missy Balmir, a veteran campaign executive. “We are not going away.”

In 2019 and today, women told us they have nowhere to go and seek help.  A bill introduced in 2021 would have created a new office investigating harassment complaints inside the nonpartisan Election Law Enforcement Commission, which polices campaign finance and lobbying laws. 7/9

Today at NJ.com we revisit the subject again, focusing on campaigns.  What’s changed since the national #metoo movement began in 2017?

Looks like lunch. ⁦@karbachbrewing⁩ Love Street Light (crisp and refreshing) and … Cheetos!

Lunchtime! Cheetos flaming hot crunchy + ⁦@Eastciders⁩ Tropical Punch. I’m not much of a hard cider drinker; what are your favorite ones?

When in doubt, go Flaming Hot. Is Cheetos the best beer snack or what?

At Terry Black’s Austin they slice the meat right in front of you. I nearly fainted

Terry Black’s Barbecue, Austin. I just may come back here tomorrow, my last night in Austin

Last night in Austin: where should I eat? Must be within walking distance of downtown. No barbecue; that was dinner last night. I’m thinking Gus’ Fried Chicken, but can easily be persuaded otherwise

Bartender, mocktail bar, ⁦@aclfestival⁩. First time I’ve seen a mocktail bar at the festival. Tried the It’s Giving Wings w Red Bull watermelon, mint, lime

So I asked the manager of the Shell station in Marshall Tex. if he could recommend a good place to eat to Carthage, a half hour down the road. He thought a moment and said, “Taco Bell.” Uh, thanks anyway. Pete will find a place. He always does

Starting with tortilla chips, homemade salsa and a salt-rimmed Modelo. Beer choices slim here. That salsa is nice and perky

@RiddickTNT @petegenovese Sheetz does have better egg sandwiches made to order. Wawa is not bad, though.

I’m at Buffalo Wild Wings somewhere in Tennessee. What sauce should I order? Let the record show I’m a dry rub guy but I have an open mind when it comes to my favorite food. As far as choosing BWW, it was within walking distance of the hotel and I’ve driven enough today

I hate it when I’m on vacation and I have tough beer decisions to make. Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA vs. Crosstown Brewery Traffic IPA. I’ve been to the latter in Memphis and like them a lot, but went with the Hazy Little Thing

@petegenovese Chipotle BBQ is a great dry rub