To the editor:

In response to the Aug. 5, 2011 Brigantine New Republican Club point of view:

Definition of hypocrite: Somebody who pretends to have admirable principles, beliefs or feelings, but behaves otherwise.

For over 100 years the Brigantine Republican Party has ruled Brigantine politics (think “Boardwalk Empire”). We have all heard of new residents moving to the island being advised by neighbors to "Join the Republican Club" if you want anything done for your property, business or personal agenda. The Republican Machine ruled with impunity and did so through fear and intimidation.

In 2007, I, along with three other courageous men, embarked on a mission to change this monolithic rule and bring local government back to all the people of Brigantine. To allow residents and taxpayers the right to express opinions, positive or negative, regarding the state of our island and challenge the officials elected to represent them. I was eventually elected in 2008 to serve the people as councilman of the 4th Ward. My arrival as an independent voice on council was often contentious at best. Then in 2010 the unthinkable happened. In a year where nationally Democrats were being voted out by large margins, the people of Brigantine elected two Democrats, Dr. Kern and I, to the council-at-large seats, which were long held by the Republican guard. It is my belief this was a defining moment of realization by the Republican Party that, yes, our island residents did want a change in elected officials and business as usual. Residents expected their elected officials to govern fairly, with fiscally sound policies within an open and transparent process. We have challenged the status quo and have given voice to the silent majority of residents who support a two-party system.

With respect to the "New Republicans," are they really all that new? The organizers of this recently formed club were "power brokers" within the established Republican Club and recipients of all the privileges it allowed them. Do they see their powers slipping and recognize that the established Republican Club no longer rules with impunity? You have to ask yourself the question: Are they distancing themselves from the established "old guard" Republican Party and embracing the open, fair, transparent, fiscally sound Democratic platform that has begun to invoke positive change?

With regard to Councilmen Solari and Bonnani attending a fundraiser for Councilman Ken Schaffer, the answer to what motivated them to attend an opposing party's campaign fundraiser lies with them. Personally, I welcome any resident or elected official to our fundraisers, which are often community-friendly events. Did these Republican council members attend to shine a light on the hypocrisy of the "New Republicans? Only the participants can answer that question.

In closing, Dr. Frank Kern, Councilman Schaffer and I will continue to represent all the residents of Brigantine, Republicans, Democrats, independents and the unaffiliated, with the same regard – as the inclusive party of Brigantine. We appreciate your continued support.

Tony Pullella

Councilman at Large