Democrat,

As we transition into the bustling holiday season, approach the end of the year, and the fervor of the election season settles, I want to take a moment to recognize that our commitment to progress doesn't end at the ballot box. The New Jersey Democratic State Committee stands firm in our dedication to fostering positive change. With the elections behind us, our focus now shifts to working hand in hand with the officials we've supported. It's a collaborative effort aimed at pushing our state towards a future that champions equity and fairness for every resident. This ongoing journey involves active engagement and partnership with elected representatives, laying the groundwork for a New Jersey that offers opportunities for all to not just exist but to truly flourish.

I also want to extend my heartfelt wishes to our Jewish community for a happy and hopeful Hanukkah surrounded by loved ones. For eight days during this Festival of Lights, we are reminded of the enduring power of unity, faith, and resilience. May the candles of the menorah illuminate your homes with blessings of peace, happiness, and prosperity throughout this Hanukkah season.

The NJDSC stands committed to cultivating an environment where every member of our diverse communities feels safe, valued, and protected. We take immense pride in advocating for the rights of the Jewish community in New Jersey, working tirelessly to ensure that every individual has the freedom to live without fear and with the dignity they deserve. As we come together to celebrate, we must also reaffirm our shared commitment to stand against hatred and prejudice in all its forms so we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

Our Jewish Caucus and Interfaith Committee are also hosting an in-person Hanukkah Holiday Party on Saturday, December 16th in Long Branch, where attendees are invited to bring an unwrapped toy for any age to be donated to New Jersey families in need. Find more details and RSVP here!

Thanks to the unwavering dedication of Democrats across our state and the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, last week ground was finally broken on the Gateway Hudson Tunnel project that will build new train tunnels connecting New Jersey and Manhattan. This groundbreaking initiative stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to bolstering our state's infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and creating crucial job opportunities for our communities.

“This is a day to rejoice for every New Jerseyan and every American as we enter a new era for the most critical infrastructure project in our country,” said Senator Cory Booker, who played an instrumental role in securing funding for the project. “Beginning active construction on both sides of the river for the Hudson Tunnel Project is testament to the collective determination—from the Biden Administration and congressional leaders to state officials and other vital partners—to get Gateway done. The economy of our region and our nation depends on the Northeast Corridor and this project, which will modernize our mass transit, improve the lives of millions of commuters, and create thousands of good jobs.”

The project will rehabilitate and expand the Hudson River Tunnel between New York and New Jersey, which is over 100 years old, serves 200,000 passengers daily, and was damaged by Superstorm Sandy. The Gateway Hudson River Tunnel project will improve resiliency, reliability, and redundancy for NJ Transit and Amtrak passengers traveling on the Northeast Corridor between New York and New Jersey.

Over the next few weeks, we will be introducing you to the Democratic legislative members who will be serving New Jersey starting in January!

Starting with Legislative District 3 in South Jersey, we are very excited to welcome Senator-elect John Burzichelli, a longtime resident of Paulsboro who formerly served in New Jersey’s General Assembly; Assemblyman-elect Dave Bailey; and Assemblywoman-elect Heather Simmons, who formerly served as Deputy Director of the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners.

In their respective capacities, these individuals embody a blend of seasoned expertise and fresh perspectives that will be invaluable to LD 3. We extend a warm welcome as they step into their roles serving their constituents in the district and we are committed to collaborating closely with them to address the diverse needs of their communities.

This week, the Biden Administration authorized an additional $4.8 billion in student debt cancellation, benefitting 80,300 individuals. This step is a testament to the Administration's dedication to rectifying the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, ensuring that deserving individuals like educators, military personnel, nurses, and public service workers receive the relief they rightfully deserve. These actions also highlight the commitment to rectifying discrepancies for borrowers who've diligently made payments for over two decades but weren't duly acknowledged, granting them the relief they are owed.

After Republicans put a stop to his student debt cancellation plan, President Biden vowed to use every tool in his power to get borrowers the debt relief they so desperately need–and he has done just that. This latest approval brings the total debt cancellation facilitated by the Administration to an impressive $132 billion, aiding over 3.6 million Americans facing the student debt crisis affecting an entire generation of borrowers.

— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. Join the NJDSC via Zoom on Wednesday, December 13th to learn about the 2024 DNC Convention Delegate Selection Plan.

The Delegate Selection Plan lays out the rules and procedures for the allocation and election of delegates to serve under the New Jersey Delegation at the 2024 Democratic National Convention. The informational session is your opportunity to learn about the application process.

RSVP here!