NEWARK — Mayor Cory Booker has come under fire from some city council members and community activists for pushing the council to fill a vacant seat on the governing body with one of his allies.

The mayor's decision, which sparked a near-riot in City Hall two weeks ago, is now getting blasted by former Newark Mayor Sharpe James.

In an interview aired on NJTV (see video clip below), James claimed the city council's vote was illegal and said it was an underhanded attempt to keep his son, John Sharpe James, off the city council.

James also weighed in on speculation that Booker may make a bid to run for governor in 2013, when Gov. Chris Christie is up for re-election.

The former mayor predicted that the current mayor will not challenge Christie.

James' reasoning: Booker has had a good working relationship with the governor during the past several years and Christie has treated the city of Newark very well.

Watch Former Newark Mayor Says Booker Won't Run for Governor on PBS. See more from NJToday.

On Nov. 20, Booker cast what his administration deemed the decisive vote in favor of Shanique Davis Speight to replace Donald Payne Jr. on the city council after Payne won a special election to succeed his father, Donald Payne Sr., in Congress.

The move sparked a near riot at the council meeting that night, with some residents storming the council dais. The vote also infuriated Booker’s political opponents on the council who were denied the chance to speak, or even nominate another candidate.

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