I interviewed Councilman Ron Rice, 41, and State Senator Ron Rice, 63, about what some have called the changing generational tide in Newark that began in 2006 when Cory Booker won the mayorship. Councilman Rice supported Booker over his father, who ran as Sharpe James' successor.
What has come to symbolize the divide between the "Old Guard" of Newark and the younger, progressive movement, is the issue of gay rights, and namely same-sex marriage. Sen. Rice is one of the few Democrats not in support of pending legislation to legalize same-sex marriage in New Jersey, while Councilman Rice is a vocal proponent.
Aside from the public policy implications, what have these political differences done to their relationship, as a father and son?
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