MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ – A call by a local progressive Facebook group to boycott businesses in Monmouth County for their perceived support of former President Donald Trump has drawn sharp criticism and rallied counter-efforts to support the targeted establishments.
As the left says, when they get loud, we get louder. Now it’s time for local residents to fight this liberal mind disease that seeks to hurt the local business owners who build jobs and support the hyperlocal economy.
The boycott, promoted by the Facebook group “Indivisible,” urged residents to avoid businesses allegedly linked to Trump supporters, with users compiling lists of businesses to shun and alternatives deemed “progressive-friendly.” Some business owners claim they have been added to the list without ever publicly declaring their political affiliations.
“We are on this list without ever coming out and declaring who we even voted for,” said Taliercio’s Ultimate Gourmet in a statement on social media. “We are the definition of a true family business and now [we are] having to defend ourselves against this.”
New Jersey State Senator Declan O’Scanlon condemned the boycott, describing it as “divisive” and harmful to the livelihoods of small business owners and their employees. “I strongly condemn these efforts to damage the livelihoods of Monmouth County small business owners over political differences,” O’Scanlon said in a statement, urging residents to support the targeted businesses instead.
O’Scanlon’s remarks were echoed by State Senator Vin Gopal, a Democrat, who joined in denouncing the boycott. O’Scanlon encouraged residents to take part in a “buycott” by shopping at the businesses on the boycott list, which includes establishments like Bahrs Landing, Fair Haven Hardware, and Taliercio’s.
The controversy has sparked a wider discussion about the role of politics in local commerce, with many calling for unity and mutual respect in the community. “Here in the Two Rivers area, we respect each other,” O’Scanlon added. “Instead of demonizing our neighbors, we should bridge any divide with communication and appreciation.”
The backlash against the boycott has inspired many residents to rally in support of the targeted businesses, vowing to turn the effort into an opportunity to promote local commerce.