Government and Politics
January 24, 2025
As we embark on this new year, it’s vital to reaffirm our commitment to policies that protect the rights and well-being of all Americans. Recent actions, 28 to be exact, by President Trump have served as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in defending our core democratic values. The President’s decision to reverse efforts to lower prescription drug prices directly harms millions of Americans who rely on affordable medications. By prioritizing corporate interests over New Jersey families’ needs, this move threatens the progress we’ve fought so hard to make.
Equally troubling, is Trump’s renewed attack on birthright citizenship, a fundamental right in the Constitution that has served as a cornerstone of our nation’s promise of equality and opportunity. This move undermines the very fabric of what makes America strong and diverse.
However, one of the biggest shows of a complete lack of regard for the American people was the pardoning of 1,500 January 6 insurrectionists including Oath Keepers, neo-nazis, and white supremacists. The pardoning absolved those who violently attacked the heart of American democracy and sent a message to future MAGA extremists that if you can get away with attacking the Capitol, you can get away with attacking anyone, anywhere. This is a continued showing of Trump undermining accountability and severing justice for the lives of law enforcement damaged that day and the safety of the public put at risk.
Here in New Jersey, we are fortunate to have democratic leaders who refuse to back down in the face of such challenges. Governor Murphy and Attorney General Matt Platkin have taken decisive action by filing a lawsuit to hold Trump accountable, sending a clear message that New Jersey will not tolerate policies that harm its residents. This legal challenge is not just about defending our state; it’s about standing up for the principles that unite us as a nation. Now more than ever, we must remain steadfast in our efforts to build a future rooted in justice, opportunity, and compassion. Together, we can continue to champion policies that uplift every community and ensure that no one is left behind.
Now more than ever, we must remain steadfast in our efforts to build a future rooted in justice, opportunity, and compassion. Together, we can continue to champion policies that uplift every community and ensure that no one is left behind.
Governor Murphy joined key legislative leaders this week at Maurice Hawk Elementary School in West Windsor to reaffirm his unwavering commitment to expanding access to high-quality early childhood education across New Jersey. During the visit, the Governor outlined bold initiatives aimed at ensuring every child in the state can benefit from free, full-day kindergarten and universal preschool. By codifying preschool funding, requiring full-day kindergarten access, and strengthening partnerships between public schools and private providers, these efforts will alleviate the burden of childcare costs for families while giving young learners the strong start they deserve.
I would like us to remember Cecile Richards, a trailblazing advocate for women’s rights and a tireless champion of reproductive freedom, who passed away this week. During her 12 transformative years as president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Cecile led the organization to new heights in healthcare, education, and advocacy, navigating pivotal moments that reshaped the fight for reproductive rights. Her unwavering commitment to justice and equality ensured that access to reproductive healthcare remained at the forefront of our national conscience.
In honor of Cecile Richards’s memory, we want to offer our New Jersey Democrats a way to uphold her legacy and take action to defend women’s and reproductive rights. One way to get involved is by joining our Women’s Caucus, a dedicated working committee with NJDSC focused on advancing equity, empowering women, and protecting reproductive freedoms. The Women’s Caucus provides opportunities to engage in advocacy, organize around critical issues, and collaborate with others who share a commitment to justice.
If you are interested in joining, click here for the interest form.
— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.
P.S. Join us for a special gathering with our Muslim Caucus as we celebrate Muslim Heritage Month on January 28th in Clifton, NJ. RSVP here!