February 3, 2009 - 11:42am
News

GOP chair slams party switching ex-legislator for new government job

Gloucester County GOP Chairman Loran Oglesby is accusing former Assemblyman Steve Altamuro traded his endorsement for a legal job at the Washington Township public library.  Altamuro, a former Councilman, switched from Republican to Democrat in 2008 to back Matt Lyons for mayor. 

"I am not shocked that Altamuro received this contract.  Steve Altamuro is an opportunist at best.  He was a Republican and when the political winds blew Altamuro's way, he abandoned the Washington Twp Republican Party who were loyal to him throughout his political career," said Oglesby.  "Steve Altamuro switched to Democrat last year knowing that if Matt Lyons becomes Mayor, then he will get a job from his good friend.  No other person was able to bid for this contract. No wonder  the Democrats get away with this in New Jersey, these deals of party flipping and then receiving political favors, needs to end."  

Altamuro won a special election convention for State Assembly in the fourth district in 2003, after George Geist moved up to the Senate.  He lost his bid for a full term that year.

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