Democrat,

This past week, Vice President Kamala Harris proposed expanding Medicare to cover home health care costs, another way that the Harris-Walz ticket is creating proposals to protect middle-class Americansand older adults. Currently, home health care is covered by Medicaid, which imposes strict financial eligibility requirements, but not covered by Medicare, leaving families with no choice but to take on the responsibility of caring for older family members. With this proposal, families could have a better chance at staying together and having trusted loved ones be responsible for their care. I applaud the Harris-Walz campaign for putting families, middle-class Americans, and the dignity of those needing the care at the forefront of their policies.

I would be remiss to not mention that this week was the solemn anniversary of the events of October 7th. We remember the horrific attack in Israel by Hamas that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, including 43 Americans and victims from 40 different nationalities. We must also acknowledge the 3,000 injured, some of whom may never fully recover, and the ongoing suffering of the over 200 individuals still held hostage. This day stands as a dark reminder to those of us living normal lives, day to day, of the ongoing fight to end antisemitism and Islamophobia in our state, country and world.

The New Jersey Army National Guard is deploying about 80 soldiers and 30 military vehicles to assist with Hurricane Milton response operations in Camp Blanding, Florida. A convoy from numerous transportation companies are expected to arrive by the end of this week, as Hurricane Milton made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida on October 9. Coming on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which also caused widespread damage throughout Florida and into North Carolina, the arrival of Hurricane Milton has been a double blow to our southern region.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Florida as a second massive storm in as many weeks bears down on our nation’s Gulf Coast,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “New Jersey is committed to doing everything possible to assist Floridians impacted by Hurricane Milton—including sending a convoy to support the Florida Division of Emergency Management.”

This week the Biden-Harris Administration announced that over 250 organizations, businesses, and stakeholders have made voluntary commitments to the White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose. Launched earlier this year, the Challenge aims to enhance training and access to life-saving opioid overdose reversal medications, like naloxone. These commitments support the Unity Agenda, which encourages collaboration across the country to combat the overdose epidemic.

Under the Biden-Harris leadership, significant actions have been taken to reduce overdose deaths, including removing barriers to treatment and making naloxone available over-the-counter for the first time. As a result, the nation is experiencing the largest recorded decrease in overdose deaths.

— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. G’mar Chatima Tova to our Jewish community as you observe Yom Kippur. Wishing you a meaningful and reflective holiday filled with warmth.

P.P.S. Happy National Coming Out Day! Remember, you are not alone, and your voice matters. May we create safe spaces where everyone feels empowered to express who they truly are.

P.P.P.S. Our Progressive Caucus is hosting a variety of events next week check them out below!

Climate and Project 2025: What’s at Stake
Wednesday, October 16
Time: 6:30 – 7:30pm EDT
Location: Virtual event. Join from anywhere
*this event was rescheduled from a previous date

Progressive Caucus Meeting: Key Strategies for the 2024 General Election

Thursday, October 17
Time: 6:30 – 7pm EDT
Location: Virtual event. Join from anywhere
*this event was rescheduled from a previous date

This meeting will focus on mobilizing support for Harris-Walz and the rest of the Democrats in New Jersey. Engage with fellow members, share insights, and contribute to shaping our approach as we prepare for a pivotal election year.

Progressive Caucus Virtual Text Bank Takeover>
Thursday, October 17
Time: 7 – 8:30pm EDT
Location: Virtual event. Join from anywhere