Democrat,

Happy March! There are just a few days left for you to get your applications in to be a delegate at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this August.

The Democratic National Convention is more than just a gathering; it's a platform where diverse voices converge to shape the trajectory of our party and nation. We are seeking impassioned individuals to represent New Jersey on this esteemed stage. Whether you are a seasoned party veteran or a fresh face eager to contribute, this is your moment to make a difference.

The deadline is this Wednesday, March 6th by 5:00 pm. This is a non-negotiable date, so if you haven't already, I encourage you to act swiftly and submit your application. Your perspective, and commitment to democratic ideals are essential to our collective success. Don't let this unique opportunity pass you by – be a beacon of change, apply now, and let your voice be heard at the Democratic National Convention. Together, let's make New Jersey's impact felt on the national stage!

Please direct all questions to [email protected].

Governor Phil Murphy and Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer visited Charles and Anna Booker Elementary School in Plainfield this week to highlight $11.7 billion in funding to support equal access to education and opportunity for students across New Jersey in the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget plan.

“This year’s budget proposal builds on our work to empower students by ensuring they receive the high-quality education necessary to support life-long success,” said Governor Murphy. “Since day one of my Administration, I have remained committed to bolstering New Jersey’s school communities and working toward fully funding our best-in-the-nation public education system. Over the past seven years, we have made strategic investments – maintaining our momentum to fully fund New Jersey’s school funding formula for the first time in our State’s history — because investments in education don’t just benefit our children’s futures, they benefit us all.”

Here in New Jersey, we take pride in our commitment to prioritizing education as the cornerstone of our community's progress. As we invest in education, we recognize it as the catalyst for positive change, ensuring that our community remains at the forefront of progress. Together, we are building a legacy of education that illuminates the path toward a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow.

Throughout the month of March, the New Jersey Democratic State Committee will celebrate Women’s History Month with a weekly spotlight of trailblazing women leaders throughout the state.

We are proud to shine a spotlight on Jill Heredia Lopera, a member of our Latino Caucus and dedicated Legal Assistant at Volunteer Lawyers for Justice. In her impactful role, Jill is deeply involved in the organization's Divorce, Human Trafficking Survivors Legal Assistance, and Tenancy Programs. Beyond her professional commitments, Jill generously volunteers her time as a valuable member of the NJ Democratic State Committee’s Latino Caucus, contributing her skills to the Social Media Team. A proud 2022 graduate of Rutgers University - Newark, Jill holds a degree in Economics with a minor in Legal Studies. Motivated by her passion for justice, Jill envisions a future in the legal profession and is poised to embark on a journey toward a law degree. Her unwavering commitment to advocacy and service makes Jill an inspiring force within our community.

We are also proud to be highlighting Olive (Smart) Ross, a member of both our Older Adult and Black Caucuses, and quintessential "Jersey Girl" with deep roots in the Garden State. Holding a bachelor's degree in accounting from Bloomfield College and an MBA in marketing from Montclair State University, Olive has forged an impressive career journey. Beginning as an accountant for the City of Newark Finance Department, she transitioned into a dynamic 20-year marketing career at AT&T. For the past 15 years, Olive has excelled as an independent marketing consultant, serving prestigious clients like Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer Consumer Healthcare. Additionally, she owns O B Smart Real Estate LLC, dedicated to renovating distressed properties.

Beyond her professional achievements, Olive is a dedicated community servant, contributing as a board member for Newark Emergency Services for Families and as a founding member of the NJDEMS Older Adult Caucus. Residing in West Orange with her husband of 31 years, Olive is a proud mother, bonus mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her life reflects a story of resilience, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to community and family.

This week Republicans in the Senate blocked legal protections for IVF, while 125 House Republicans have shown support for The Life at Conception Act, which would completely restrict reproductive freedom without any protections for IVF.

Donald Trump is responsible for helping to overturn Roe v. Wade and putting IVF at risk, and he’s proud of it:

• Trump has bragged about restricting the reproductive freedom of millions of women, saying proudly that “I'm the one that got rid of Roe v. Wade.”
• Trump’s extremist allies are already laying out plans for a nationwide abortion ban, attacks on same-sex marriage, and restrictions on birth control.
• Trump has long supported a nationwide abortion ban, even saying in a speech to his MAGA supporters that “there of course remains a vital role for the federal government in protecting unborn life. And it’s very important.”
• Trump has even gone so far as to call for punishing women who have abortions.
• Trump has claimed credit for every extreme abortion ban passed thanks to his role in overturning Roe v. Wade, and said he was “proud” to have terminated abortion rights.

In stark contrast to the regressive stance taken by Republicans, the Biden Administration and Democrats in New Jersey steadfastly uphold the principles of reproductive choice and freedom. The Biden Administration remains committed to safeguarding and expanding access to reproductive healthcare without encroaching upon anyone's bodily autonomy or right to make personal medical decisions within the privacy of their own homes. While some Republicans advocate for extreme measures like a nationwide abortion ban and restrictions on reproductive technologies such as IVF, Democrats prioritize comprehensive policies that respect individual rights and choices and will continue to do so until reproductive rights are no longer under such extreme and constant threat.

You can read a full statement from A’Dorian Murray-Thomas, Chair of the NJDSC Women’s Caucus here.

— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. Join us for a special virtual event next Thursday, March 7 celebrating International Women’s Day! The event will be hosted and moderated by our Women’s Caucus Chair, A’Dorian Murray-Thomas and feature special guests Lt. Governor Tahesha Way and Jacqueline L. Jones. Let's take a moment to honor the achievements of women throughout the generations! RSVP here!