MAGA ‘Blacklist’ Rattles NJ Community
In a controversial move that sent shockwaves through Monmouth County, New Jersey, a liberal Facebook group’s attempt to create a politically-motivated boycott list backfired dramatically, leading to its swift dissolution amid intense community backlash.
The group, Indivisible Blue Two Rivers, with 435 members, had compiled a “blacklist” targeting local businesses whose owners were perceived to support “MAGA, Fox, or alt-right radio.”
The Post Millennial (TPM) reported that the list, which included establishments ranging from restaurants to children’s activity centers, was intended to discourage patronage while simultaneously promoting “progressive” businesses as alternatives.
Jason Baurer, owner of Head Over Heals, a children’s dance studio in Middletown, expressed dismay at finding his business targeted.
“This was shocking when it was brought to my attention,” he said, per NJ.
“We’re non political. We’re a children’s activity center. We’re focused on that.”
Another targeted business owner, Eric Taliercio of Taliercio’s Ultimate Gourmet Deli, discovered his inclusion on the list after running a nonpartisan Election Day promotion encouraging civic participation.
“To be listed in such a negative light, it was definitely disappointment,” Taliercio stated, per NJ.
“I know we’re a food place, and I know politically it doesn’t matter my opinion. I’m just selling food.”
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry forcefully condemned the group’s actions, defending the targeted businesses as vital community contributors.
“What bothers me the most is that the political party of self proclaimed tolerance is trying to hurt our friends and neighbors who might have a difference of political views,” Perry declared.
”And these businesses, they’re the individuals that sponsor our Little League teams, they volunteer as first responders, they employ our residents and they’re part of the fabric of Middletown and we appreciate everything that they do for our town.’’
NJ noted that he emphasized the businesses’ community involvement, noting their sponsorship of Little League teams, volunteer work as first responders and role as local employers.
The backlash proved swift and decisive.
TPM reported that following the community’s strong reaction, the group first deleted the controversial post before shuttering the entire Facebook group.
The group’s administrators have maintained silence regarding the incident, declining to comment publicly on their actions or the subsequent fallout.
The episode highlights growing tensions in local communities as political divisions increasingly spill into everyday commerce.
The swift community response demonstrates the potential consequences of attempting to weaponize consumer choices based on perceived political affiliations.
MAGA “blacklist” shared by leftist Facebook group shut down amid backlashhttps://t.co/dgqsRXZoxs
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) November 25, 2024
TTOA reported earlier this month on a left-wing pledge that circulated X that called for a widespread consumer spending boycott.
The coordinated social media effort was aimed at undermining the anticipated economic policies of Trump’s incoming administration.
“Trump will not have a good economy because we don’t have to let him,” one user posted.
“I myself plan on paying my bills and saving every penny beyond that. I will not contribute to this economy in any other way.”
The account detailed plans to stock up on necessities before Trump’s inauguration.
It also suggested followers to “make sure [they] have everything [they] need for the next four years.”
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