Will Thilly, an independent candidate running for the Cranford Township Committee in New Jersey, made headlines after his dramatic protest during a township meeting. Dressed in martial arts gear, Thilly performed a series of kung fu kicks, breaking through several of his own protest signs that criticized the local government. The incident, described as ‘kung fu theater,’ unfolded during a streamed meeting, drawing mixed reactions from the audience.
Thilly’s protest was part of a broader campaign focused on his grievances against the mayor, Terrence Curran, over the management of a controversial 30-year tax exemption deal for a 250-unit apartment complex. He accused the township committee of mishandling the deal, claiming it resulted in significant financial losses and contributed to rising property taxes. The mayor, however, dismissed the stunt as a ‘complete distraction.’
Thilly’s theatrics at the meeting are not new. Last month, he gained viral attention for a breakdancing performance at another township meeting, which also criticized rising taxes. The incident, which garnered over 1.6 million views, showcased his unique approach to political engagement. As the election approaches, Thilly’s unconventional methods continue to spark discussions about the intersection of performance and politics.