New Jersey Citizen Action’s Healthcare Program Director, Laura Waddell, has voiced strong disapproval following the passage of the “Big Beautiful Bill.” In a statement, she highlighted the potential negative impact on Americans who depend on affordable healthcare and essential services.
“It is a devastating blow to the millions of Americans who rely on affordable health care, food assistance, and other essential services to survive,” Waddell stated. She criticized federal Republican lawmakers for ignoring warnings from various stakeholders in New Jersey’s healthcare system about cuts to Medicaid, ACA, and Medicare.
Waddell also mentioned Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies’ lengthy debate as an attempt to delay the vote. “Every legislator in Washington D.C. who voted ‘YES’ is complicit,” she added.
She singled out Congressmen Tom Kean Jr., Jeff Van Drew, and Chris Smith for aligning with President Trump’s agenda rather than supporting constituents. The bill reportedly results in significant financial cuts affecting NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid and ACA tax credits, potentially leading to increased premiums and loss of coverage for many residents.
Waddell further expressed concern over anticipated reductions in education funding that could affect low-income and special needs students, as well as increased funding for ICE activities that may harm communities.
She criticized the fiscal implications of the bill: “There is nothing fiscally responsible about passing a budget that creates a $5 trillion deficit just to give $4.5 trillion in tax breaks to billionaires who don’t need it.”
Finally, Waddell warned that voters would remember these actions during the 2026 mid-term elections: “We will ensure voters know exactly what is in this bill and who was responsible for stripping away their healthcare and economic security.”
