TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin is facing an impeachment effort led by state Assembly Republicans, who accuse him of overstepping his authority and failing to perform his duties.
Assembly Republican Leaders John DiMaio, Antwan McClellan, and Christopher DePhillips introduced a resolution Thursday to begin impeachment proceedings, alleging Platkin has misused his office to undermine law enforcement.
“Platkin has undermined people’s trust in our police and the office of the Attorney General. We’re starting the impeachment process to balance the scales of justice,” DiMaio said.
The resolution claims Platkin has weaponized his position by directing investigations that harm state police operations, including commissioning a report on traffic stops. Lawmakers also criticized his office’s handling of police misconduct cases and accused him of pursuing “lawfare” by filing lawsuits and making public statements on behalf of the state.
The articles of impeachment also cite his takeover of the Paterson Police Department, legal actions during the pandemic, and alleged bias against pro-life organizations.
The impeachment process requires a majority vote in the Assembly to advance to a Senate trial, where a two-thirds vote is needed to remove Platkin from office.
The resolution sets the stage for a political battle over the state’s top law enforcement official.
