NJ Spotlight News with Briana Vannozzi

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Rep. Jeff Van Drew joins the show as his district grapples with federal funding cuts for programs meant to protect the Jersey Shore. Plus, President Donald Trump calls for banning mail-in voting across the nation. Also, Rutgers researchers unveil a brand new kind of Jersey tomato. And, new polling finds New Jerseyans largely oppose Trump's "Make America Great Again" movement.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Republican Jack Ciattarelli turns his attention to minority voters as he seeks a path to defeat Democrat Mikie Sherrill in the race for New Jersey's next governor. Plus, a crowded field assembles for the Jersey City mayoral election. Also, Newark's public school leaders tout progress in their fight against chronic absenteeism. And, President Donald Trump continues to push for Alina Habba to be appointed U.S. Attorney for New Jersey.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a high-profile murder raises questions about how domestic abuse claims against police officers are handled by their colleagues. Plus, a nonprofit works to relieve medical debt for New Jerseyans in needs. Also, gambling revenue soars for Atlantic City casinos. And, President Donald Trump threatens to open new investigations into the "Bridgegate" scandal after former Governor Chris Christie criticizes the administration.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a federal judge in Pennsylvania has ruled that Alina Habba has no legal authority to serve as New Jersey's U.S. attorney. Plus, Hurricane Erin barreled up the Jersey coast, causing major flooding along the Shore, and forcing some residents to evacuate. Also, Governor Phil Murphy signs legislation to bring more solar power onto the grid to try and reduce your electric bills. And, Ukrainian refugees here in the Garden State share their hopes and fears for their country, as diplomatic meetings show little progress towards peace.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the race for New Jersey's next governor is a tight one, with the latest poll showing Democrat Mikie Sherrill holding a slight edge over Republican Jack Ciattarelli. Plus, dangerous waves threaten the Jersey Shore as Hurricane Erin makes a run up the East Coast. Also, ICE raids ramp up across the Garden State as immigration authorities detain dozens of warehouse workers. And, the "Summer of Hell" for PATH riders continues, but in South Jersey there are new promises of expanding commuter services.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the American Academy of Pediatrics is advising parents to get their infants vaccinated against COVID-19, in a sharp break with the Trump administration. Plus, despite dozens of fatalities at the hands of law enforcement in New Jersey, a deeper dive by our reporters indicates almost none of the officers involved have been held accountable. Also, relief is on the way as state agencies try to get a handle on sky-rocketing electric bills. And, as Newark parents prepare to send their little ones off to kindergarten, a new program is creating college savings plans for them.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Rep. LaMonica McIver argues for a dismissal of her assault charges, comparing her incident outside the Delaney Hall ICE detention center to the January 6th insurrectionists who were pardoned. Plus, Governor Phil Murphy and state officials warn of life-threatening rip currents as Hurricane Erin churns up the East Coast. Also, taking a look inside immigration court where a massive case backlog is putting more undocumented children at risk of deportation. And, the fervent debate over the future of the trouble Trenton Water Works erupts at a fiery city council meeting.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, "life-threatening" rip current warnings have been issued for the Jersey Shore as Hurricane Erin barrels up the East Coast. Plus, the saga of acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba continues, as a federal judge in Pennsylvania weighs the legality of her appointment. Also, one woman's story of abuse shines a light on the stigmas that exist for domestic violence victims, especially when their alleged abuser is a member of law enforcement. And, state lawmakers are searching for energy options as soaring demand for electricity drives bills higher.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a special broadcast of the documentary "Paradox: Rising Water and Mounting Costs" examines the challenges that sea level rise poses for the Jersey Shore and its valuable tourism industry.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, youth activists & legislators gather in Hoboken and Point Pleasant to demand the passage of the Climate Superfund Act. Plus, the legal battle over the legitimacy of Alina Habba's appointment as U.S. Attorney could be settled in a Pennsylvania court tomorrow. Also, a food bank in Passaic County is facing higher demand with an even tighter budget as tariffs take effect. And a new animal rights campaign urges Six Flags Great Adventure to give up its elephants.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the fate of people commuting between Philadelphia and Trenton remains in the hands of Pennsylvania's divided government, as a funding fight threatens the future of SEPTA regional rail lines. Plus, Seaside Height officials are cracking down on after hours beach access after one man drowned from a deadly rip current. Also, state scientists sound the alarm on tick-borne Lyme disease which has been detected in all of New Jersey's 21 counties. And, a decade after the historic decision Obergefell v. Hodges which protected marriage rights for same-sex couples, the Supreme Court is being asked to overturn the landmark ruling.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Paterson's water crisis reaches a fifth day, but a critical repair milestone is reached. Plus, the Trump administration has officially taken over Atlantic City's troubled public housing system. Also, a pair of New Jersey Democrats hear the complaints from their constituents, and pledge to take on the President. And, the surging popularity of e-bikes for especially for teenagers and children is raising new safety concerns on Jersey streets.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, flight restrictions at Newark Liberty International Airport could be extended, as staffing shortages continue to plague air traffic control. Plus, families trying to visit loved ones held at the Delaney Hall ICE detention center in Newark say they face grueling wait times and unanswered questions. Also, local authorities try to manage New Jersey's mosquitoes as West Nile virus detected across most of the Garden State. And, August is Black Business Month and the state is shining a light on the impact of black entrepreneurs and black owned businesses.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office takes over Franklin Township's police department after allegations that local officers missed warning signs ahead of a double murder-suicide. Plus, new findings reveal just how widespread the problems are at the beleaguered Trenton Water Works. Also, catching up on New Jersey's gubernatorial race. And, New Jersey native Jen Pawol is set become the first woman to umpire in a regular season Major League Baseball game.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, President Donald Trump's tariffs have finally taken effect, and consumers are starting to feel the impact. Plus, the Trump administration is cutting funding for vaccine research, as vaccination rates in children decline. Also, earthquakes are shaking the New Jersey region more frequently. And, a basketball camp run by the Philadelphia 76ers brings joy to kids in Camden.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the fight over so-called "sanctuary cities" ramps up as immigration policy takes center stage in New Jersey's race for governor. Also, nonprofits try to fill the gap after federal cuts to a suicide prevention hotline geared towards the LGBTQ+ community. Plus, lawmakers are proposing changes to compensation & benefits for contract workers, leaving many freelancers fuming. And, how Camden is striving to improve interactions between the public and police.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the Trump administration targets four New Jersey cities as part of its crackdown on so-called "sanctuary" jurisdictions. Plus, senators split on arms sales to Israel, with Senator Cory Booker voting to uphold the spending despite calls for an end to the war in Gaza. Also, state leaders convene an emergency meeting to discuss how to grapple with soaring energy bills. And, with funding for public transit in Pennsylvania in jeopardy, Trenton area commuters brace for drastic service cuts.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the legality of Alina Habba's appointment as acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey is now being questioned by defendants awaiting trials. A federal just in Pennsylvania will now decide her fate. Plus, New Jersey reaches a landmark settlement DuPont for over $2 billion to deal with toxic "forever chemicals" pollution around the Garden State. Also, a sixth measles case is reported in the state. Experts are advising parents to get their children vaccinated before school starts. And, Cranbury appears to be moving forward with plans to seize a 175-year-old family farm, despite an ongoing lawsuit and federal support for its owners.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a state of emergency is declared in all 21 counties as New Jersey braces for flash floods and severe storms. Plus, staffing shortages contributing to issues at Newark Liberty International, as the airport struggles with delays and cancellations. Also, over 350 men and women have sue the state, alleging they were sexually abused as children by staff at juvenile facilities. And, as federal cuts to social services continue, the number of unhoused individuals in New Jersey continue to grow.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the U.S. Senate confirms former Trump attorney Emil Bove as a U.S. appeals court judge, despite strong opposition from Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Andy Kim. Plus, as a heat wave continues to grip the Garden State, calls for workplace heat protections amplify. Also, local Palestinian community leaders and families make an emotional plea to the Trump Administration to end the starvation crisis unfolding in Gaza. And, a new workforce development initiative is launching in Toms River to fill the void of automotive technicians here in New Jersey.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a new Fairleigh Dickinson poll shows Democrat Mikie Sherrill holding an edge over Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the race for governor. Also, homelessness is up 15% New Jersey, as the White House continues to cut federal services. And, the Trump administration promises to clean up New Jersey's most polluted places, despite major budget cuts and regulatory roll backs.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a dangerous heat wave grips New Jersey to start the week. Plus, the tickets are set for the Garden State's upcoming gubernatorial election. Also, tax hikes in New Jersey's new state budget are set to take effect later this week. And, content creators descend on a Newark animal shelter to to help get dozens of animals adopted .

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Alina Habba will remain as the acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, after eleventh-hour maneuvering by the Trump administration. Plus, lawmakers meet with commanders at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst after plans are revealed to use the post to detain thousands of undocumented immigrants. Also, Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. and other members of congress are under fire for their personal stock trades. And, students at this summer's Alvin Ailey camp aren't just gaining confidence in their dance skills, but also in themselves.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst could become the largest holding site on the East Coast, as the Trump administration plans to house up to 3,000 immigrants on the post. Plus the Alina Habba saga continues, as the woman picked by federal judges to replace the acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey pledges to take the post despite pushback from the Department of Justice. Also, advocates pushback on a bill in Trenton that would adopt a controversial definition of antisemitism, saying it's a threat to free speech. And, K-12 educators are in summer school learning to incorporate climate change into their fall curriculum.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, there's new uncertainty over who actually is the top federal prosecutor in New Jersey. Also, the state supreme court ruled that the Attorney General's office had the power to take over Paterson's police department. Plus, Jack Ciattarelli picks Morris County Sheriff James Gannon as his Lieutenant Governor. And, the federal government is stepping in after a years-long battle over deplorable living conditions at the Housing Authority in Atlantic City.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Alina Habba is out as the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey after a vote by federal district judges. Plus, construction begins on a new maternal health center in Trenton. Also, a new report projects next year's World Cup will have a more than $3 billion economic impact to the region. And, property tax relief checks are sent out to senior homeowners around the Garden State.

Tonight, on NJ Spotlight News, as New Jersey recovers from last week's severe flash flooding and prepares for the height of hurricane season, Rep. Frank Pallone is sounding the alarm that FEMA is not ready to respond, and is urging FEMA's chief to be fired. Plus, Alina Habba, the acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, could soon be out of a job after launching an investigation into Gov. Phil Murphy and butting heads with elected leaders around the state. Also, New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin highlights the impact of federal funding freezes to education. And, the state's cannabis industry is expanding with the approval of four consumption lounges.

Tonight, on NJ Spotlight News… Alina Habba's term as the interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey is set to end after a lack of Senate support blocks her path to full appointment. Plus, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is tapped to serve as a migrant detention center. Also, the Federal Emergency Management Agency faces an uncertain future, leaving New Jersey in a precarious position for future disasters. And, a summer camp for teens with spinal cord injuries gives them a sense of independence, and a little fun.

Tonight, on NJ Spotlight News, two people are killed and dozens are injured by two separate lightning strikes across the state in less than a two week span. Plus, Sen. Cory Booker leads Senate Democrats against President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer Emil Bove, who Trump has appointed to become a federal judge. Also, The U.S. Senate approves a $9 billion cut to public media and foreign aid. And, after devastating floods swept through Plainfield, community members rally to support a local animal shelter that was wrecked by the storm.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the New Jersey Supreme Court upholds charity care for residents in needed, rejecting arguments from the hospital industry.   Plus, renewed scrutiny surrounding an immigration raid that detained 20 workers at a warehouse in Edison. Also, a father who sued Delaware Valley Regional High school and lost over the school's decision to "socially transition" his child within his knowledge is appealing his case. And, growing concerns of a dangerous lifeguard shortage National Park  beaches here in the Garden State.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a state of emergency is declared across New Jersey after severe flash flooding turned deadly. Plus, a grand jury has decided not to charge the police officer who shot and killed Fort Lee resident Victoria Lee last year. Also, the latest changes for plans to revamp New Jersey's coastal development rules are not sitting well with either environmentalists or business groups. And, the U.S. Senate weighs whether to pull funding for public media like NJ PBS.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Phil Murphy is subpoenaed as interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba investigates the governor's statements made earlier this year about housing an undocumented woman. Plus, a joint investigative report between NJ Spotlight News and Climate Central explored the rising threat of extreme heat risks to expectant mothers. Also, an Elizabeth-based nonprofit pushes to bring more women of color and veterans into the construction industry. And, President Donald Trump joins thousands of fans attending the FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, as the region prepared for next year's big event.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Senator Cory Booker leads the charge to prevent ICE agents from wearing masks during raids and other immigration enforcement actions.   Plus, a new report finds Amazon's record delivery speeds come at a cost to contract workers who are subject to intolerable and possibly illegal conditions.   Also, state lawmakers come under fire after diverting $45 million of New Jersey's opioid settlement money.   And, Jersey City's famous Loew's Theatre is undergoing a major restoration.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the New Jersey State Police unions take on Attorney General Matt Platkin, with a lawsuit over an ongoing investigation into racial profiling Plus, a new Rutgers-Eagleton poll finds most New Jerseyans are unhappy with how the state government is handling affordability and cost of living. Also, health care costs for state employees are set to skyrocket in the next year. And, Governor Phil Murphy touts the return of the iconic Cosmos as a new minor league soccer team takes the famed brand into a new chapter in Paterson.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Phil Murphy and state lawmakers make moves to expand access to free Pre-k and kindergarten in New Jersey.  Plus, an ICE raid at an Edison warehouse rattles the community, as immigration advocates demand due process for detainees. Also, a family dealing with the stress of deportation becomes a cautionary tale for the mental health toll heightened enforcement is taking on immigrant communities. And, a look ahead to the next year's Congressional midterm elections. The race in District 7 is getting crowded as more Democrats try to take on Republican Congressman Tom Kean, Jr.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, big crowds over the July 4th holiday buoy Shore tourism after a slow start to the season. Plus, the fight over school funding continues in Toms River, where residents are reeling from a major tax hike needed to keep the district afloat. Also, an annual report once again finds a broken system of care for people with disabilities. And, as intense storms and flood waters wreak havoc nationwide, Gov. Phil Murphy's administration weighs new rules for development in vulnerable low-lying areas.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Plainfield is still recovering from last week's sudden severe storm that left three people dead as New Jersey braces for the remains of Tropical Storm Chantal. Plus, public health advocates warn that President Trump's changes to Medicaid threaten to keep the most vulnerable from getting the care they need. Also, the new state budget restores some funding for community colleges, but some students could still face financial hardships. And, debate swirls over New Jersey's official 9/11 Memorial.

Tonight on a special 4th of July edition of NJ Spotlight News, summer is here and New Jersey's gubernatorial race is heating up. Governor Phil Murphy is term-limited and will be leaving office in January, after serving for eight years. Voters will choose his replacement in November, weighing Trump-backed Republican former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, who came close to ousting Murphy four years ago, against Democrat Mikie Sherrill, the four-term Congresswoman who is a former navy pilot and federal prosecutor. Early polls show Sherrill leading the race, but she'll have to buck historic trends to win this fall. No party has held the governor's office in New Jersey for three consecutive terms in more than 60 years.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, all eyes on Washington as President Donald Trump's massive spending cut and immigration package gets a final vote. Also, cutting edge climate research and weather forecasting is on the federal chopping block in Trump's proposed budget. Plus, growing talk of developing new nuclear energy in the Garden State as New Jersey leaders try to balance surging electricity demands with ambitious clean energy goals. And, prices drop at the pump just in time for a weekend of holiday travel.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, House Republicans weigh a critical vote on President Donald Trump's sweeping spending cuts package, a day after the bill squeaked by the Senate. Plus, the leading budget officer for New Jersey Republicans weighs in on the state's new nearly $59 billion budget. Also, work is underway on the multi-billion dollar expansion of University Hospital in Newark, a step towards fulfilling a vision 50 years in the making. And, a pair of Rutgers Scarlet Knights make history, becoming the first two men's basketball players from the school to become lottery picks in the NBA draft.

Tonight, on NJ Spotlight News…. The “Big Beautiful Bill” clears the US Senate but faces an uphill battle in the House… as we break down New Jersey's largest-ever budget in state history; Plus, the White House wants the state's interim U.S Attorney Alina Habba to serve a full four-year term…putting her nomination in play in the Senate; Also, “SAVE OUR FARM”, a land dispute over a farm in Cranbury has drawn the support of the Trump administration; And, OPEN FOR BUSINESS, the boardwalk in Seaside Heights is officially ready for fun this holiday week, with the Attorney General's stamp of approval on its games…   

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News ... UNDER THE DOME, as lawmakers in Trenton pass a record $58 billion dollar dollar budget bill and advocates from both sides of the aisle are criticizing the what's in and what's been cut; Plus, the budget calls for diverting millions in opioid settlement funds away from community groups to the hands of New Jersey's largest hospitals…AG Matt Platkin slams the plan; Also, CHRONIC UNDERSTAFFING , a new report finds several nursing homes are lacking in patient care; And, CRISIS NURSERY, a nonprofit in Monmouth county is providing free childcare for any family in need. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News…. President Donald Trump is declaring a “giant win” after the U.S. Supreme Court rules lower courts can no longer issue nationwide injunctions on his executive orders,  Plus, state lawmakers will vote tonight on the multi-billion dollar state budget, and they've already advanced tax hikes as part of the spending package. What will it mean for your wallet?  Also, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities seeks to bring internet access to all, pushing to expand connectivity to rural areas of the state struggling to get online. And, it is the final weekend for North 2 Shore, the statewide festival bringing music and the arts to communities around the Garden State.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News…. New Jersey lawmakers craft a budget deal in Trenton., but what's in and what's been cut from the Governor's multi-billion dollar spending plan…   Plus, state lawmakers pitch new bills to deal with New Jersey's growing energy crisis. Also, President Trump's former attorney Emil Bove is grilled by Sen. Cory Booker after being nominated to become a federal judge. And, with summer temperatures soaring, the spotlight returns to the dangers of extreme heat on the job.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the brutal heat wave gripping New Jersey extends into a third day. Record-breaking temperatures continue plaguing most of the state, causing power outages, transit delays, road damage and putting residents health at risk. Plus, budget negotiations in Trenton heat up with five days until the deadline. Also, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver is arraigned on assault charges following last month's confrontation with ICE at the Delaney Hall detention center. She entered her not guilty plea in Newark federal court on Wednesday. And, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman joins the show to discuss the recent strikes in Iran and her push back against the “Big Beautiful Bill.”

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, President Donald Trump calls for Israel and Iran to stand down with a tenuous ceasefire. Plus, a Supreme Court decision opens the door for Trump Administration's immigration crackdown to continue. Also, as temperatures hit 100 degrees around New Jersey, paramedics in Paterson are distributing water and providing additional medical care. And, with summer in full swing, cuts to federal programs increase the risk of food insecurity among kids here in the state.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the U.S strikes three Iranian nuclear facilities and Iran retaliates, targeting the largest U.S military base in the middle east. Plus, Mahmoud Khalil is freed. The Pro-Palestinian activist at the heart of a high-profile deportation fight is finally released from ICE detention. Also, New Jersey braces for a heat wave, with many counties opening cooling centers to offer some relief from the rising temperatures. And, new numbers show the Garden State is having success in bringing down the number of low-risk cesarean deliveries.

Tonight, a special edition of NJ Spotlight News…Two years in the making …. A comprehensive study of slavery here in New Jersey that's often been overlooked. The NJ Reparations Council presented its findings on this Juneteenth holiday. Now…how to begin repairing the harm slavery caused to so many… and the discrimination and segregation that still exists in the state today?

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, with the cost of power soaring and a heat wave on the way, state regulators and utilities hatch a plan to offer short-term relief for electric customers. Plus, as a federal immigration crackdown sweeps the nation, ICE's past problematic treatment of detainees resurfaces. Also, a federal judge rejects ICE efforts to remove a New Jersey resident who's been legally protected for more than 15 years. And, Republicans in Congress target money for Planned Parenthood, threatening abortion access here in New Jersey.

Tonight, on NJ Spotlight News… MEDICAID CUTS, state Democratic lawmakers call on the Trump administration to Save our Hospitals; Plus, NJ DECIDES 2025, the first joint public appearance for BOTH gubernatorial candidates… and the gloves are officially off; Also, RISING SEA LEVELS, the state debates an overhaul of its rules for building along the coast,  as costs to shore communities rise; And, UNDER THE DOME, taxes, taxes, taxes, as the deadline for the state budget looms, advocates push for changes to key property tax programs.      

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, one escaped detainee from the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark is still at large. Mayor Ras Baraka claims the facility was never equipped to house thousands of ICE detainees. Plus, disgraced former Sen. Bob Menendez reports to federal prison. He will spend the next eleven years behind bars in Pennsylvania after being convicted of corruption & bribery charges. Also, breaking down how New Jersey will spend more than a billion dollars from opioid settlement funds.  And, examining a pilot program that provided hundreds of low-income Newark residents were given a guaranteed income for two years.