The New Jersey Libertarian Party announced on Apr. 1 its opposition to a proposed tax increase intended to fund an upcoming major event in the Meadowlands area, citing concerns over the impact on state residents already affected by high taxes and inflation.
Party officials say the proposal would further burden taxpayers across New Jersey, not just those near the Meadowlands. The party’s statement questions whether recouping $307 million in taxpayer money initially allocated for securing and upgrading stadium facilities justifies additional taxation. “While it is true that this could be seen as a way of recouping the $307 million in taxpayer money initially allocated by the State to secure the event, upgrade the stadium, etc., this tax hike will only further encumber an already struggling population,” according to their announcement.
The party also raised concerns about an extra $20 to $26 million given to the Board of Directors for the New York New Jersey Host Committee and questioned political appointments related to these funds. “Given that former first lady of NJ Tammy Murphy was appointed the Chair, we call into question the involvement of NJ Democrats; from former Governor Murphy to sitting officials,” they said.
“We of the New Jersey Libertarian Party reject this proposal and any others that aim to further tax the people of NJ in any way. We believe that the State has no place in sports, competitive or otherwise. Taxpayers should not be bled to fund any sporting events, stadiums, etc.,” reads another part of their statement.
According to its official website, The Libertarian Party of New Jersey functions as a state affiliate focused on advancing libertarian principles such as limited government and personal freedoms. The organization extends its activities statewide and provides support for ballot access and libertarian candidates according to its official website.
In conclusion, party leaders called on Governor Sherrill and Senate Budget Chair Paul Sarlo—identified as supporters or sponsors—to withdraw their backing from both current spending plans and future proposals involving public funding for sporting events. “We call for the complete separation of sports and state… We call on Gov. Sherrill to remove her support from this proposal and use her veto power… We also call on Senate Budget Chair Paul Sarlo…to put the needs of NJ taxpayers first,” they said.
