Advocates and grassroots activists from the People over Profits campaign have reached out to GOP Representatives Tom Kean Jr., Chris Smith, and Jeff Van Drew. They are urging these representatives to oppose proposed cuts by the Trump administration to essential programs such as Medicaid, TANF, SNAP, and key subsidies for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The advocates argue that these cuts would fund tax breaks for billionaires and corporations while negatively impacting millions of New Jersey residents who rely on these programs for health care, food, housing, and other necessities.
The letter sent by the coalition references a report released by New Jersey Citizen Action along with partners from the For the Many NJ revenue coalition. This report highlights those most vulnerable to the proposed cuts in New Jersey:
- 1.8 million residents depend on Medicaid for health coverage.
- 830,000 residents use SNAP benefits.
- 481,000 residents have enrolled in ACA marketplace plans.
There is concern among Republicans about extending enhanced tax credits that benefit 92% of ACA coverage buyers. Without renewal of these credits by the end of 2025, premiums could increase significantly. For instance, a couple aged 60 making 400% of poverty level income might face an additional $18,100 cost if credits are not renewed.
The coalition expressed their concerns: “We are deeply disturbed that Republican leaders in Congress are contemplating cuts to these health care and other economic security programs while at the same time pressing to extend and expand the Trump tax cuts which largely benefit wealthy people and corporations.”
Maura Collinsgru from New Jersey Citizen Action commented on inequality: “The Trump administration’s proposals double down on inequality by relying on cuts to critical resources that low- and moderate-income families depend on to pay for tax cuts to the wealthiest.”
Eric Benson from For the Many Campaign stated: “Those who’ve built their fortunes by exploiting others must pay their fair share so we can invest in the people who make our communities strong."
Laura Waddell from NJCA added: “Too many New Jerseyans are already struggling to pay health care bills... Any cuts to funding that drive costs up will be catastrophic for many New Jersey families.”
Coalition members have requested meetings with Representatives Kean Jr., Van Drew, and Smith. They also invited them to participate in a community town hall during February when House members will be in district.
