Democrat,

We kicked off February strong with our Black History Month Virtual Meeting in partnership with our Black Caucus. With nearly 100 attendees, this event offered a chance to reflect on the 2024 election results, celebrate the enduring legacy of Black history, and explore the way forward. For those who are interested in joining our Black Caucus, please click here and stay tuned for upcoming events!

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ken Martin on his election as the new Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). As Chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) and former President of the Association of State Democratic Chairs (ASDC), Ken has proven himself as a dedicated leader with an unwavering commitment to working with, and for, state parties across the nation. You can read my full statement here. A special congratulations to our very own Vice Chair Peg Schaffer, on her new role as ASDC Eastern Representative to the DNC Executive Committee. Peg’s dedication and leadership will continue to strengthen our efforts and help drive the Democratic Party forward for New Jersey and our nation.

We also offer our congratulations to the newly elected and re-elected leaders of the DNC.

The first week of February has laid a strong foundation for the year ahead. As we continue forward, we are committed to expanding our outreach, strengthening our communities, and making 2025 a year of meaningful progress and impact.

Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey secured a remarkable $22.155 billion in federal revenue for FY2024, supporting 609 state-administered programs. This funding represents a 56% increase from FY2019, demonstrating the state’s commitment to securing vital resources to strengthen our communities. Medicaid was the largest program supported, accounting for $13.913 billion, ensuring that healthcare remained accessible to many New Jerseyans.

During February, the New Jersey Democratic State Committee proudly honors Black History Month with weekly spotlights on New Jersey Black leaders who continue to champion equity and inclusivity, ensuring that all New Jerseyans can participate and flourish in our society.

This week we highlight Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, who has played a key role in uplifting Black voices and ensuring greater representation at every level of government. As we look ahead, we remain committed to strengthening Black representation and amplifying Black voices to ensure transformative impact.

Additionally, the New Jersey Democratic State Committee is excited to celebrate Youth Leadership Month by highlighting young leaders who are driving change in their communities and beyond.

We are excited this month by highlighting Saahir Vazirani, a student at Saint Joseph High School. He has worked hard participating in organizations that focus on civic engagement such as the YMCA’s Youth and Government program, Leaders Across the World, and Youth Advocate programs. Saahir has also interned for the Monmouth County Democrats and been part of Congressman Pallone’s Youth Advisory Council.

The NJDSC is proud to highlight a talented and hardworking individual such as Saahir. He is the future of our party and we’re looking forward to everything he accomplishes.

This week, we introduce a new section in our Chairman’s Update dedicated to addressing the misinformation spread by the Trump Administration. As he ramps up his rhetoric, we remain committed to setting the record straight and ensuring our supporters have the facts.

Recently, President Trump claimed that the U.S. is the only country in the world with unrestricted birthright citizenship. This is false. Around three dozen countries—including Canada, Mexico, and nearly every nation in Central and South America—offer automatic citizenship to children born within their borders, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. While the U.S. and Canada are the only “developed” countries with this policy, as defined by the International Monetary Fund, President Trump’s statement distorts the broader global context. His misleading claim fuels unnecessary fear around immigration something we’ve come to expect as he continues to push his extreme agenda.

If you’re feeling frustrated by the misinformation and extremism coming from President Trump and his allies, you’re not alone. The best way to push back is through action. Only so much can be done by posting online. We invite you to visit our Mobilize page where you’ll find a variety of events and volunteer opportunities, many led by our coalitions. Whether it’s phone banking, community organizing, or attending grassroots events, there are countless ways to make an impact. Together, we can ensure the truth prevails and build a stronger, more engaged Democratic movement.

— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. Please join us for a special meet and greet with our Black Caucus as we celebrate Black History Month on February 10th from 6:00-8:00 pm in Newark, NJ. RSVP here!

Click Here for more information.