TOMS RIVER-Four years ago, the Toms River Republicans raised nearly $30,000 for their council re-election campaign. This year, under new leadership, the club has raised just over half of that, $18,000.
According to club members, club president Bob DiBiase is upset over a recent fundraiser held in Toms River in the middle of election season for Jackson Township Mayor Michael Reina. The event was attended by Toms River and other influential area Republicans.
The event was hosted by ousted Toms River Republican Club Chairman Juan Bellu.
Insiders say DiBiase was angry with Bellu and Reina for taking money out of the township using donors who would typically donate to township campaigns.