Staff Reports
The government shutdown has become the talk of the town, and Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew from New Jersey is weighing in with his thoughts, especially on how this political hiccup might shake up the upcoming governor’s race in his state. According to Van Drew, this shutdown is particularly damaging for Democrats, and he has some good reasons for this bold prediction.
Van Drew pointed out that this isn’t just any ordinary shutdown. He referred to it as a “Democrat shutdown,” claiming that it stems from a refusal to cooperate on a basic budget measure by Democratic leaders. The Republican-controlled House attempted to keep the government running with a plan known as a Continuing Resolution (C.R.), which would allow for an extra eight weeks of budget discussions. Historically, both parties have agreed on such measures to keep the wheels of government greased, but it appears the dynamics have changed this time around.
He emphasized that this mini-budget bill isn’t radical and lacks any controversial elements associated with President Trump. It simply aims to maintain the status quo and gives everyone time to figure out health care and spending matters. Van Drew pointed out that for years, Democrats like Chuck Schumer have supported these kinds of resolutions, but it seems Schumer’s recent political encounters have made him less likely to cooperate. Van Drew blasted the Democrats for wanting to create chaos instead of working together, leaving them with the shutdown on their shoulders.
The dialogue then shifted to the state of New Jersey and the upcoming governor’s race. A fellow member of the New Jersey congressional delegation, Mikie Sherrill, has accused Trump of freezing funds for critical infrastructure projects like the Gateway Tunnel, which is a partnership between New York and New Jersey. However, Van Drew didn’t see it that way. He stood firmly in defense of Trump, asserting that the funds were being frozen not for political games but to ensure money is spent wisely and efficiently.
He criticized previous administrations for misallocating infrastructure funds towards seemingly irrelevant projects, calling them “nonsense.” He recounted conversations with transportation officials about the need for modernizing the state’s infrastructure—especially airports and bridges that have languished in disrepair. Van Drew insisted that New Jersey’s infrastructure needs to be fixed properly, with funds going to projects that truly matter rather than being squandered on superficial initiatives.
Amidst this political drama, the Congressman seemed hopeful for New Jersey’s future, banking on the notion that the Democrats’ unwillingness to work together could indeed backfire in the governor’s race. As the showdown continues, it’s clear that Van Drew believes that the political landscape is shifting, and he’s gearing up for what promises to be an exciting election season ahead!
