The first public showdown between Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and Senate Pres. Steve Sweeney (D-3) may still be a ways off, as Sweeney has brushed off Fulop’s North Jersey casino debate challenge as “manufactured theatrics.” 
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The Senate President doesn’t have the time to engage in manufactured theatrics with Mr. Fulop, who once again is attempting to insert himself into the legislative process. Senator Sweeney is focused on a plan that serves the needs of the entire state,” Sweeney said through his spokesman, Richard McGrath.
“The Senate President will continue to work with state leaders in the Senate and Assembly on all the issues of importance to New Jersey, including the expansion of gaming to North Jersey. Leadership is about working to bring people together and he will continue to work with the Assembly Speaker to move this issue forward.â€
Earlier today, Fulop challenged Sweeney to a debate on Friday’s edition of On the Record with Michael Aron (h/t PolitickerNJ).
“I am confident that a spirited debate of the numbers and merits will offer great insight to the public regarding this important topic,” Fulop, a vocal support of Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto’s North Jersey casino bill, said earlier today.
Speaking with Hudson County View on Sunday, Prieto referred to the Fulop vs. Sweeney dynamic surrounding the North Jersey casino issue as “an illusion” created to district from the facts.
Fulop and a Jersey City spokeswoman did not immediately return an email seeking comment.
