Dear Neighbor,
After facing intense public pressure, President Trump has reversed his reckless and unconstitutional freeze on billions in federal funding. This victory is proof that raising our voices makes a difference. But let’s be clear—this never should have happened in the first place.
For days, New Jersey’s small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments were thrown into chaos. Vital programs like Meals on Wheels, community health centers, disaster relief, and major infrastructure projects were left in limbo. Trump’s decision to backtrack is a relief, but it doesn’t erase the damage—or the fact that he was willing to jeopardize these critical services in the first place.
And this is just the beginning. In his first days back in power, Trump has already:
- Halted U.S.-sponsored worldwide HIV treatment, putting lives at risk.
- Revoked security clearances from political enemies to punish dissent.
- Ignored the Constitution to deny American citizenship.
- Reinstated insubordinate military members with back pay.
President Trump Backtracks
We cannot trust Trump to do what’s right on his own—he only backed down because people fought back.
If your organization, business, or community was affected by the Trump funding freeze, I want to hear from you. If you’re affected, please take my survey here. Your stories help me push back against these harmful policies and ensure New Jersey gets the resources it deserves. Like this story from a constituent in Aberdeen who told my office:
"My family relies entirely on the money from SNAP to eat. We struggled last year living on the $145 dollars as our grocery budget. I am disabled and need groceries deliver, so such delivery fees are already something I pay out of pocket in order to get groceries. I have to limit myself to one batch of groceries a month that covers everything. We were so excited this year to be allotted more in food stamps since they recently raised the payments do to the insane cost of living.
Only to have this happen, and our SNAP benefits to be fully threatened.
I also am on Medicaid insurance. Again, I am disabled (blind), and suffer from multiple mental health conditions and am on medication. All of that is being threatened. I have no extra income or savings to help cover these things. If I lose my Medicaid insurance, I lose all medical care.
I make only $1600 a month. And $1000 of that goes to rent.
This decision to freeze funding to incredibly reckless and dangerous."
Celebrating Innovation: Winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge
Each year, the Congressional App Challenge brings out the best and brightest young minds in New Jersey’s 6th District, and this year’s winners are no exception. Ekya Dogra, Sahil Ghosh, and Adithiya Venkatakrishnan from Edison Academy Magnet School created “RADR”—a groundbreaking app designed to enhance Amber Alerts and assist in child abduction cases. Their proposal combines AI, dashcams, and law enforcement networks to improve response times and increase public safety. I’m incredibly proud of these students for their innovation and remain committed to supporting STEM education that empowers the next generation of problem solvers.
A Free, Simple Way to File Your Taxes—Thanks to Democrats
Filing your taxes shouldn’t require paying for expensive software or a private tax preparer. That’s why Democrats created Direct File, a free, secure, and easy-to-use tool that allows eligible Americans to file their federal taxes directly with the IRS—no middleman, no hidden fees. While the Biden Administration has ensured this program remains available, spreading the word is crucial so working families can keep more of their hard-earned money. Learn more about how to file for free at IRS Direct File and take advantage of this game-changing program that puts taxpayers first.
Condemning Trump’s Release of Violent Criminals Who Attacked Our Democracy
Donald Trump’s decision to release Julian Khater—the man who brutally assaulted New Jersey native and Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick—is an appalling miscarriage of justice. Every New Jersey House Democrat signed onto a statement condemning Trump’s reckless pardons of over 1,500 convicted rioters, standing firmly with law enforcement and the rule of law. Officer Sicknick died defending our democracy, and we will not allow his sacrifice to be diminished. We will continue fighting for accountability and justice. Read more.
LOOKING AHEAD: Calling All Young Poets!
April is National Poetry Month, and I’m excited to host my 10th Annual Poetry Showcase! K-12 students in the 6th Congressional District are invited to submit original poems on the environment, civic engagement, and social justice. Submissions open March 1st and close April 1st. Stay tuned for more details on how to participate!
Showcase Your Art in the U.S. Capitol
High school students in New Jersey’s 6th District will soon have the chance to participate in the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. This annual contest highlights young artists from across the country, with the winning piece from our district displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a full year. While we’re finalizing details on eligibility and submission guidelines, now is a great time for students to start thinking about their entries. Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks!
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
