This Fourth of July, I wish I was writing to you about the bright and promising future of conserving our democracy. Instead, the recent SCOTUS ruling casts a dark cloud over the future of our democracy. It’s crucial to remember that Trump has been clear about his intentions since day one: he believes that the laws of this country apply to every American except himself. This should serve as a wake-up call to anyone who believes their vote doesn’t count. Where are the Republican extremists now, who once advocated loudly for “law and order” and patriotism? Where are their voices now denouncing this horrifying precedent?

Our founding fathers did not declare independence, and found a judicial system to check the concentration of power in one person, for it to end here. This Fourth of July, let us commemorate the holiday by pledging to educate voters about the implications of this SCOTUS decision and by bringing along one friend or neighbor to the polls on November 5th.

This past week, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation establishing the State Work First New Jersey Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program and Diaper Benefit Program, allocating $2.5 million to support these initiatives through the Department of Human Services. Under these programs, eligible adults participating in Work First New Jersey can receive a $14 monthly benefit for menstrual hygiene products, including tampons and sanitary napkins. Those with young dependents under 36 months can receive a $30 monthly benefit for diapers.

“Easing the financial burden these essentials put on New Jersey residents will reduce the impact of period and diaper poverty and help all families maintain their hygiene with dignity.” said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz.

These funds, distributed alongside existing Work First New Jersey benefits, will alleviate financial strain on families by covering essential health products. New Jersey families deserve to live with dignity and not deem these items as a luxury and something they must sacrifice to make ends meet.

Following the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision, which was divided along ideological lines, President Biden addressed the ruling from the White House. He criticized the decision that grants former President Trump partial immunity from criminal prosecution.

“I know I will respect the limits of the presidential power, as I have for three and a half years. But any president, including Donald Trump, will now be free to ignore the law. I concur with Justice Sotomayor’s dissent today,” said President Joe Biden.

In her dissent, Justice Sotomayor put it succinctly, “In every use of official power, the president is now a king above the law. With fear for our democracy, I dissent.”

The court has sent the case back to the trial judge to determine which of Trump’s actions, if any, were official duties that would be protected from prosecution. While the courts work out the limits of the legal precedent, here in New Jersey, we will rally to the polls to protect our democracy.

- Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. Over the weekend, we celebrated with our 2024 Building Our Future training series graduates. They have delved into our political landscape, honed their skills as potential candidates and operatives, and are now poised to support increasing our democratic representation!

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