Dear Neighbor,  

Did you know Thanksgiving’s roots tie directly to New Jersey? In 1789, New Jersey Congressman Elias Boudinot proposed a national day of public thanksgiving to celebrate the newly ratified Constitution. While his idea sparked debates, President George Washington ultimately issued a proclamation encouraging states to observe the holiday.  

For decades, Thanksgiving remained a regional holiday, mostly celebrated in the Northeast. New Jersey even took its own path in 1865, marking Thanksgiving on July 4th instead of following President Lincoln’s declaration for the last Thursday in November. It wasn’t until 1941 that Congress, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially set Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November, uniting America in a shared tradition.  

As you celebrate Thanksgiving next week, take pride in New Jersey’s pivotal role in shaping this holiday. Wishing you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving!  

Protecting Public Health: Speaking Out Against Trump’s Dangerous Nominations

Recently, President-elect Trump nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to head the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These nominations are deeply troubling. CMS and HHS are cornerstones of our nation’s health care system, ensuring millions of Americans, including seniors and children, receive the care they need.  

Unfortunately, neither nominee possesses the experience or trustworthiness required to lead these agencies. Dr. Oz and Mr. Kennedy have both spread harmful misinformation that endangers public health. I will continue to fight for leadership that prioritizes science and the well-being of the American people.  

At the World Climate Conference (COP29), Fighting for Climate Action and Human Rights

I recently attended COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, to address the climate crisis and advocate for human rights. I also reinforced America’s leadership in clean energy, showcasing how investments like the Inflation Reduction Act drive both economic growth and climate progress.

My defense of human rights was met with Azerbaijani government-sponsored protests at every turn, and their president barred me from key discussions on regional peace. These actions only highlighted the urgent need to combat authoritarianism alongside climate change.

Authoritarian regimes cannot dictate the global agenda on climate and human rights. Their attempts to silence dissent only deepen our resolve to stand for justice, progress, and a sustainable future for all.

Honoring Bill Pascrell’s Legacy at Paterson Great Falls

This week, I submitted testimony to the House Natural Resources Committee to advance my bill to rename key facilities at the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in honor of the late New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. For nearly 20 years, Bill was a relentless advocate for Paterson and instrumental in securing the park’s national designation.  

Renaming these landmarks will honor his unwavering dedication to preserving our industrial history and his legacy of public service. Additionally, I recently led efforts to rename grants in the Traumatic Brain Injury Program after Bill to reflect his commitment to improving medical care for those suffering with TBI.

Click here to visit my website or call my offices directly if you have questions or need help with a federal agency:

Middlesex County: 732-249-8892

Monmouth County: 732-571-1140

Sincerely, 

Congressman Pallone