AGP Executive Report

Corruption Anxiety: A new Gallup poll finds nearly 90% of Americans believe U.S. government corruption is widespread, the highest level of distrust in two decades. Prediction-Market Fight: New Jersey asked the U.S. Supreme Court to decide whether states can regulate sports betting on prediction markets like Kalshi, after conflicting federal rulings. Consumer Safety Recall: FDA confirmed a recall of Crystal Temptations’ “Chocolatey Eyeballs” sold at TJ Maxx and Marshalls in 13 states due to undeclared milk and potential life-threatening allergies. Local Crime & Safety: Authorities say an elderly hiker was found dead and another man was rescued after going missing in New Jersey. Sports in the State: MLS NEXT Pro is coming to Middlesex County in 2027, with a club planned for NEXUS in Edison. State Policy: New Jersey’s pro-life protest protections were expanded under new guidelines aimed at keeping demonstrations peaceful outside clinics. Business/Legal: NJ’s AG Raoul joined the FTC in a lawsuit against Amazon over alleged secret ad surcharge pricing. Credit Card Pressure: LendingTree data ranks New Jersey among states with the highest average credit card balances.

Sports (NHL): The New Jersey Devils swung for more offense, trading for Nashville forward Luke Evangelista, sending the Predators a conditional 2028 first-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick. State Policy (Energy): Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act, letting New Jersey residents use plug-in portable solar up to 1,200 watts without the usual permit or utility approval. Education (VR): Montclair State University opened a new virtual reality facility with a 26-seat classroom and a free-roam VR pod for immersive, hands-on learning. Health (Kidney risk): A Rutgers-led study links preeclampsia—especially with severe features—to a much higher risk of chronic kidney disease in the year after childbirth. Public Safety (Trenton): Police continue searching for those responsible for a deadly Trenton block-party shooting that left two dead and eight wounded. Lottery: Mega Millions’ Tuesday jackpot was estimated at $160 million, with winning numbers reported as 61-1-51-63-22 (Mega Ball 17).

Times Square stabbing hits NJ: A Bank of America VP from Chester, Erin Piacenti, 32, was fatally stabbed in a seemingly random Times Square knife attack; police say the suspect was shot after tasers failed, and a second victim was also stabbed but is in stable condition. OCD research from Rutgers: A Rutgers-led international study identified 36 genes tied to obsessive-compulsive disorder and chronic tic disorders, expanding possible treatment targets. NJ teacher sentenced: A Freehold-area special education teacher, Allison Havemann-Niedrach, was sentenced to 12 years after prosecutors said she exchanged 25,000 texts with an eighth-grade student to groom him. Consumer safety recall: Crystal Temptations recalled Halloween “Chocolatey Eyeballs” sold at TJ Maxx/Marshalls/HomeGoods due to undeclared milk allergens. Tech and ads: Lyft and United Airlines are rolling out “dynamic” in-app ads in NYC that update travel-time estimates to Newark Liberty (NJ) and JFK through Dec. 31, 2026. Local business/consumer tech: Walmart says tap-to-pay is coming to 70 NJ stores (and 8 Sam’s Clubs) by the end of 2026. Public health access: A Medicare GLP-1 “Bridge” pilot is leaving some NJ patients out, with eligibility limits tied to medical diagnoses.

Sports & Local Spotlight: Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football after 21 years with Argentina, ending with 125 goals. The 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain was played in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Public Health & Community: Families across Camden County gathered for the 11th annual Remembrance and Hope Memorial Vigil honoring loved ones lost to overdose. Education & Tech in NJ: A case study from St. Joseph’s Academy in Southern New Jersey looks at how teachers are using student laptops for instruction—not just testing—aiming to make thinking more visible. Research: Rutgers researchers report aerobic exercise can boost executive function in women after menopause. Consumer Safety: The Better Business Bureau says Point Pleasant Beach ranked among the top NJ cities for scam reports in July, with online purchases the most common type. Animals: A South Toms River police K9, Loki, is awaiting emergency surgery after a medical emergency during training. Legal/Policy: The 3rd Circuit upheld New Jersey’s telehealth licensing rule requiring out-of-state physicians to be licensed before consulting NJ patients.

Trenton Gun Violence: Residents are questioning the police response after a deadly, unauthorized block party in Trenton left 2 people dead and 8 others injured, with officials saying the crowd grew to more than 100 before shots were fired. State Data Center Oversight: New Jersey signed a law requiring data centers to report water and energy use to the Board of Public Utilities every six months for three years, aiming to protect ratepayers and infrastructure. Food Safety Alert: A mango recall affecting more than 300 boxes was issued after possible Salmonella contamination tied to a farm; no illnesses reported. Local Community Spotlight: Unity Table hosted a “Welcome Back” reception in West Orange honoring teachers and first responders. Sports in NJ: Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina’s national team after the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.

Trenton Violence: Two people were killed and eight others wounded in a shooting early Sunday at an “unauthorized adult gathering” on Locust Street in Trenton, with police saying about 100 people were there and no arrests were reported. Crash Tragedy: An unlicensed driver allegedly struck a mother and her two children in a Jackson Township parking lot, killing the baby and injuring the mother and 5-year-old daughter; prosecutors say the driver faces manslaughter and other charges. Public Safety Policy: Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora said the city will look at identifying large gatherings earlier and improving coordination and enforcement to prevent crowds from turning dangerous. Food Safety: Walmart shoppers in NJ and nearby states were told to check for recalled mangoes sold in tri-state stores due to possible Salmonella contamination. Local Tech Fight: Holmdel approved a local ban on data centers, though a major Bell Works bid may still proceed under earlier filing rules.

Violence in Trenton: Two people were killed and nine others were wounded in a mass shooting early Sunday at an unpermitted block party on Locust Street, authorities said. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation; no arrests or motive have been announced, and more than 50 shell casings were recovered. Public Safety Statement: Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said the city is supporting the investigation and urged residents to remember the human cost of gun violence. Legal/Policy Watch: A New Jersey law firm is urging “responsible and ethical” AI use in legal work, stressing attorney oversight and client confidentiality. Weather Alert: A heat dome continues to fuel severe storm and flooding risk heading toward the Northeast, with unusually warm nights expected. Community Spotlight: Miss America is in West Palm Beach for the first time, with the pageant set to crown its winner Sept. 6.

New Jersey Politics & Policy: Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed a law making to-go alcohol permanent and another measure requiring data centers to report how much water and energy they use, as local towns continue pushing back against new data-center projects. Public Safety: A Jackson crash outside NPGS killed 9-month-old Yitzchok Rosenberg and injured his mother and 5-year-old sister; prosecutors charged the driver with manslaughter and assault by auto, noting she had never held a valid license, and a second woman was charged for allegedly letting her drive. Community & Tragedy: Jersey City held a candlelight vigil for victims missing after Nepal flash flooding and landslides, with local leaders saying Bloomfield residents are among the missing. Courts & Voting: A federal judge temporarily blocked a USPS rule that would have tightened requirements for state vote-by-mail systems ahead of the Nov. 3 election. Sports: The New Jersey Jackals clinched a Frontier League playoff berth with a 9-2 win over the Sussex County Miners.

To-Go Alcohol Made Permanent: Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed a law letting New Jersey bars and restaurants keep selling mixed cocktails in sealed containers for off-premises consumption, extending COVID-era rules that were set to expire. Crash in Jackson Township: A 20-year-old Trenton woman accused of never having a driver’s license is charged after a vehicle struck a mother pushing a stroller in a grocery parking lot, killing a 9-month-old boy and injuring a 5-year-old. Immigration Court Ruling: A federal appeals court rejected the Trump administration’s mandatory detention policy, saying immigrants must have access to bond hearings. Prediction Markets: Another federal court sided with Nevada, backing Kalshi’s right to regulate prediction markets and setting up a potential Supreme Court fight. Gas Prices: AAA reports NJ regular gas averages about $4.05 a gallon, slightly below the national average, as oil markets react to tanker attacks. Public Safety—Bomb Lab: A Denville man faces federal charges tied to an alleged “sophisticated” home bomb lab with dozens of homemade devices. Local Fraud Tracker: BBB Scam Tracker ranks Jersey City and Newark among the top NJ cities for scam reports in July, with Trenton also listed.

To-Go Alcohol Becomes Permanent: Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed a new law making pandemic-era rules permanent, letting qualifying NJ restaurants and bars sell cocktails and other alcoholic drinks to-go and for delivery. Local Business Boost: Supporters say it gives small businesses another revenue stream as costs rise. Public Safety/Compliance: The law keeps alcohol in original containers and requires mixed drinks to be sealed. Meta Settlement’s NJ Angle: A landmark US settlement with Meta over teen social media harms is set to reshape platform practices, with New Jersey among the states involved. Tragedy in Jackson: An unlicensed driver struck a mother pushing a stroller in a Jackson grocery parking lot, killing the baby; two women face charges. Sports—Jets/Giants Preseason: The Jets lost 23-6 to the Giants in East Rutherford, with injuries and roster battles in focus. Weather/Fields: Flood damage forced Ridgewood to cancel home football and soccer games this fall. Business/Shopping: Target plans to open Beauty Studios in 24 NJ stores next month.

Hudson Tunnel Funding Fight: The Trump administration appealed a court order requiring continued federal payments for the $16 billion New York Hudson Tunnel project, after a judge rejected efforts to pause grant funding. South Jersey Storm Damage: Route 322/Swedesboro Road partially collapsed after flash flooding from Thursday storms, with repairs expected to cause lingering delays. Local Health Access: Jersey City residents urged the state to reopen Heights University Hospital at a NJDOH hearing, calling it their “last line of hope.” Healthcare Safety Alert: Baxter issued a nationwide recall of 0.9% sodium chloride injection lots after potential fiberglass contamination was detected. Business & Jobs: Lee & Associates arranged a 250,000-square-foot industrial lease in Perth Amboy, bringing a major warehouse to full occupancy. Cannabis Bankruptcy Path: A Delaware bankruptcy court recognized The Cannabist’s Canadian proceeding under Chapter 15, signaling a possible new route for cannabis firms seeking protection. NJ Lottery Pop Culture: The New Jersey Lottery and Jon Bon Jovi are teaming up for Jon Bon Jovi-themed $5 scratch-offs launching Oct. 5. Public Safety Reminder: Prospect Park police warned residents after a Facebook Marketplace robbery, urging use of safer exchange locations.

Severe Weather & Flooding: Thursday’s storms dumped heavy rain across New Jersey, with town-by-town totals showing flooding risk and saturated ground, including 3.38 inches in Linden and 2.51 in Harrison. Public Health: Rutgers researchers say about 65% of young children brought to NJ ERs for suspected poisonings likely didn’t need emergency care if families had called poison control first. Local Government: North Brunswick Township backed away from a proposed 300,000-square-foot warehouse redevelopment at 100 Fidelity Plaza after residents pushed back, with the town saying the plan wouldn’t move forward. Community & Kids Literacy: Linden is expanding Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, mailing free books to children from birth to age five. Courts & Voting: The RNC escalated its fight with NJ election officials over voter-roll records tied to noncitizens, threatening legal action if records aren’t turned over by mid-September. Safety & Infrastructure: A Phillipsburg bridge repair update says emergency work is progressing after long delays, with officials describing ongoing coordination between the railroad and NJDOT. Sports: Seton Hall hosts Illinois State volleyball to open the season, while the Jets’ preseason finale plans reportedly include sitting key starters.

Jersey City Budget Crunch: City Council approved a 15.15% property tax hike and a new $886.4M budget to close a $255M deficit, with residents facing about $51 more per month starting Q3 2026. Meta Teen Safety Fallout: Meta agreed to pay up to $17.1B (including at least $525M for New Jersey) and adopt default limits for minors—daily time caps, nighttime blocks, stronger parental controls, and tighter feed protections—after states sued over alleged addictive design. Title X Fight: New Jersey joined a multistate lawsuit challenging new federal Title X conditions that would force providers to drop nondiscrimination protections and restrict care. South Jersey Fuel Fines: White House–promoted “Freedom Fuel” stations racked up nearly $430K in DEP violations, including tank registration and delivery ban problems. Weather Watch: Severe storms and possible flooding are on the radar for the Philadelphia region and parts of South Jersey, with flash-flood risk in heavier downpours. Local Spotlight: A proposed John Street memorial park in Newport would honor fallen first responders with plaques and a quiet reflection space.

Meta Settlement: Meta agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion in a multistate deal over alleged harm from Instagram and Facebook to children, with Kentucky saying it gets $358 million; the terms include a combined two-hour daily limit for kids under 18, “productive pauses,” nighttime blocks, and tighter age checks. Local Justice: A Rutgers University dean, Joshua Kohut, was arrested and charged with invasion of privacy after prosecutors alleged he secretly recorded “upskirt” videos using a cellphone. Sports Recruiting (NJ): Glassboro High blue-chip WR Mekhi Parker set six game-day visits and is planning trips including Rutgers, with Texas and Tennessee among the early leaders. Weather Disruption: Rain is forcing changes to North Jersey high school football opening-night schedules, including moving multiple games and shifting the Jim Grasso Classic to Friday. Politics (NJ stop): U.S. Sen. Cory Booker visited Trenton-area sites as he called for generational change in Senate Democratic leadership. Other NJ Interest: A sailboat stolen from a Jersey City marina led to a deadly shootout in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, police said.

Meta Settlement for NJ Families: Meta agreed to pay New Jersey at least $565 million as part of a landmark multistate deal over claims Facebook and Instagram were designed to addict children, with no admission of wrongdoing and court approval still required. The agreement includes child-safety changes like daily caps for teens and limits on nighttime use, plus additional money tied to privacy claims. Big Legal Fight Over Voting by Mail: New York Attorney General Letitia James and other states sued the U.S. Postal Service to block a new USPS rule that would require states to hand over mail-voter lists and get federal approval for ballot envelope designs—raising concerns about disenfranchising eligible voters. Rutgers Upskirt Case: Rutgers dean of research Joshua Kohut was charged with invasion of privacy after prosecutors said he secretly recorded “upskirt” videos; he’s been banned from campus pending the case. Local Crime: A man accused of stealing a luxury sailboat in Jersey City was shot and killed by police in Rhode Island. Immigration Crackdown: ICE asked Miami-Dade officials to detain a criminal illegal alien charged with murder, as part of a broader enforcement push.

Meta Trial in NJ Spotlight: Instagram chief Adam Mosseri testified that few teens used the “Take a Break” safety feature before it was turned on by default, as a landmark case by 29 states—including New Jersey—continues in federal court over claims Meta designed Instagram/Facebook to be addictive. Privacy Fight: NJ Attorney General Dana Nessel and allies won a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from demanding sensitive CDL driver data from a state records database. Local Courts vs. Federal Power: The U.S. Justice Department sued an Ohio municipal court over a rule limiting immigration arrests near courthouses, escalating a broader crackdown on local limits to federal enforcement. Road Safety Tragedy: A stolen $220,000 SUV joyride ended in a fatal crash that killed two people, with police urging residents to secure key fobs. Environment Update: Manasquan beaches were cleared after syringes found were determined to be home health care needles from a sewer overflow, not regulated medical waste. Cost of Living: A SmartAsset study says a family needs about $295,110 a year to live comfortably in New Jersey. Sports & Community: Little League World Series play continued as Hamilton beat New Jersey, while Morven Museum announced a new Stockton Education Center exhibit on New Jersey Black women printmakers opening Sept. 4.