Fellow Democrat,

This afternoon, I had the privilege of delivering my second State of the State address. I’m always glad to begin the new year on a high note, and this year brings many opportunities for optimism about the future of our state. 

As the new year unfolds, our mission does not change -- we must continue building an economy and a state that works for every New Jersey family. We have the opportunity to continue making smart investments for our future, restoring fiscal responsibility, and changing the culture of Trenton. 

New Jerseyans are seeing progress because we are doing what we promised we would do. We are investing in our families, who are benefiting from higher wages and expanded middle-class tax breaks. We’re attacking the sources of high property taxes. We’re taking on the high cost of health care and protecting vital health services. And we’re investing in our public schools and workforce development because everyone deserves a chance to learn the skills they need to find a good-paying job and build a brighter future. 

Since I took office two years ago, our economy has added and supported more than 72,000 new private-sector jobs -- not in spite of our policies, but because of them. New Jersey’s investments in clean energy, technological advancement, and new national and international economic partnerships are paying off for everyday working people.

These are our values: We stand on the side of the middle class and everyone working to get there. We don’t stand down, even when the fight is tough. We’re not afraid to take on the culture change that Trenton needs, because our number one priority will always be putting the needs of families ahead of the well-connected and entrenched special interests. 

I am grateful for the leadership of the Legislature, our county and local representatives, and communities across our state that allows us to continue making progress toward a stronger, fairer New Jersey. Together, we will continue to build a state where everyone belongs and everyone matters, making New Jersey a national leader in economic and justice. 

Thank you for standing with us. Can you contribute a few dollars - whatever you are able - to New Jersey Democrats to help us continue fighting for a stronger, fairer New Jersey?

Sincerely,

Gov. Phil Murphy