New Jersey Deputy Attorney General Resigns Over Political Concerns

As New Jersey approaches a tight gubernatorial election, a deputy attorney general made the bold choice to step down from his secure government position last week in order to address pressing political matters impacting his home state.

William Holmes shared that after a 14-year tenure in public service—where he handled significant cases as an assistant prosecutor and defense attorney—he felt the need to resign. It wasn’t an easy decision, but he believed it was necessary.

“I simply can’t work for someone who might be branded as a racist or a white supremacist just because I align with Mr. Kirk’s views,” Holmes said, expressing his moral dilemma.

He highlighted specific incidents, like the celebration surrounding the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, alongside comments made by Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill regarding Kirk’s perspectives.

Holmes voiced strong apprehension that Sherrill could defeat Republican contender Jack Ciattarelli in the upcoming election. “We differ on many issues, but the thing that troubles me the most is her recent labeling of Charlie Kirk’s viewpoints as ‘racist’ and ‘anti-American,'” he remarked on Facebook, underpinning his reasons for resignation. In his view, Sherrill’s “irresponsible labeling” was enough to disqualify her.

His comments were a response to a statement from Congressman Sherrill, where she condemned the “horrific” assassination while deeming Kirk’s views as “despicable,” alleging they sought to “undo the rights of women and black individuals.”

Holmes went on to criticize Sherrill for her lack of understanding and for failing to comprehend her political opponents’ arguments. He pointed out that anyone holding significant power should at least make an effort to grasp opposing views.

Furthermore, he questioned Sherrill’s silence regarding a text message scandal linked to her wishing harm upon the children of her Republican rival in Virginia.

“I’m stepping down because I want to encourage people not to support Mikie Sherrill,” he stated. His frustration with her inflammatory remarks prior to Kirk’s burial was palpable. “I can’t work for someone who would label me as a racist or white supremacist simply due to my alignment with Mr. Kirk’s perspectives.”

Though acknowledging the risks involved with his resignation, Holmes emphasized the necessity of open political discourse. “I’ve held back on several issues, like bail reform and the assassination attempt on President Trump. While it’s understandable why prosecutors need to maintain silence—it impacts public trust—I know full well that if my colleagues find out about my conservative beliefs, it could hinder my career advancement in a Democratic administration,” he explained.

He argued passionately that debate is essential for uncovering the truth, criticizing terms like “Nazi,” “racist,” and “fascist” as tools to dehumanize conservatives and suppress discussions.

Holmes encouraged others to step forward, speak their minds, and defend what they believe. He believes that the more individuals who challenge ignorant labels, the more challenging it becomes to silence differing opinions.

As of recent polling data, Sherrill holds a slim average edge of just 3.3 points over Ciattarelli, with some showing only a 1-point lead.