NJ Education Report

Gregory R. Martucci, a school board member and Democratic councilmanin the Union County city of Linden, called Vice President Kamala Harris a “streetwalker” on Facebook. He also said she is “right off the wingnut streets of San Francisco” and “has no clue about America.”  He was responding to a comment by pro-Trump comedian and actor Terrence K. Williams. Here’s the Facebook post:

Linden Superintendent of Schools Marnie Hazelton and the Linden Board of Education had no comment. After the ensuing uproar Martucci apologized, saying “This was an offensive’ comment which does not reflect who I am in both my private and public lives.” He added, “my actions to this point have always reflected a positive support for all women and for all cultures. I assure you that I will continue to support all women and all cultures.” I would ask that each of you be receptive to my public apology and sincere regret for this injurious comment.”

Martucci is a long-time educator in Linden Public Schools. He retired in 2016 from his position as a social studies teacher; from 1992-1994 he was a Linden district principal but reverted to teaching social studies when the School Board declined to renew him as an administrator. According to state records he has an annual pension of $133,503.