Democrat,

In the words of our Black Caucus’ Chair Missy Balmir “We are going to take our democracy back and some more.”

To combat MAGA and the Trump Administration, it’s crucial that we unify our party and stand firm in our commitment to justice and equality. Divisive rhetoric and harmful policies can only be overcome through collective action and solidarity. By coming together, we can push back against the regressive agenda, amplify our democratic values, and work towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Our strength lies in our unity, and only by joining forces can we effectively challenge the forces that seek to undermine our democracy and core principles. Take the action with us and we can safeguard our democracy, we have done it before and we will do it again.

Governor Murphy took a significant step toward strengthening public health by signing Executive Order No. 381, establishing the Advisory Council on HIV, STIs, and Viral Hepatitis. This newly repurposed council will work to combat the HIV epidemic, address rising STI cases, and mitigate the risks of viral hepatitis, with a specific focus on the Black, Hispanic, Latino, and LGBTQIA+ communities who have been disproportionately affected.

This action stands in stark contrast to recent moves by the federal government, which has removed critical public health information and services from federally maintained websites, jeopardizing efforts to combat these diseases nationwide. At a time when the Republicans and the Trump Administration are turning their backs on vulnerable communities, Governor Murphy is making it clear that New Jersey will continue the commitment to public health and the well-being of our residents.

Black History Month Spotlight

This week, we recognize Paige Johnson for her unwavering commitment to advancing justice and expanding opportunities for Black communities. Paige’s work serves as a powerful reminder that Black history is not just about reflection, it’s about action.

Paige Johnson is an emerging leader committed to sustainability and inclusion in STEM. As an Account Manager for BASF, the world’s largest chemical producer, Paige has dedicated her career to the chemical industry. She also actively contributes to her community as Vice President of the Lawrence Democratic Club and Chair of the Lawrence Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Paige holds a BS in Marketing from Rutgers and an MBA from UNC Chapel Hill. She’s a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where she co-chairs the Connection & Social Action Committee.

Youth leadership spotlight

This week for Youth Leadership Month the NJDSC is proud to highlight James Meister from Branchburg, a senior at Somerville High School. Meister is a dedicated advocate for civic engagement and community-driven solutions. His involvement in organizations such as YMCA Civic Engagement, and the American Legion Jersey Boys State showcases his commitment to leadership and public service. In 2024, he took that dedication a step further by petitioning to run for his local town council, meeting with hundreds of voters to discuss real solutions to community challenges.

Young leaders like Meister are shaping the future of our party, and we can’t wait to see all that he will accomplish in the years ahead.

Fact checking Trump

On January 20 President Trump made an executive order “pausing” almost all foreign assistance for 90 days, removal of senior USAID leaders in the Civil and Foreign Services, and uncertainty among USAID contractors and implementing partners regarding the status of ongoing programs.

Most recently, President Trump posted on his Truth Social page that USAID’s spending “IS TOTALLY UNEXPLAINABLE… CLOSE IT DOWN!”

President Trump does not have the authority to eliminate USAID, as it was created by Congress. USAID was established as an independent agency within the executive branch (defined in 5 U.S.C. 104), and only Congress has the power to abolish, relocate, or consolidate it. The President cannot make such changes without congressional authorization.

Call to Action!

We need your help to register more Democrats for this upcoming election to stop the Republican Party from taking over in New Jersey. We have the tools and resources for you to host your own voter registration drive. Whether it be at a community event, school, place of worship or outside of the grocery store, NJDSC can help you organize a voter registration drive! Contact [email protected].

— Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

P.S. Join us for a special virtual event in collaboration with the NJ High School Dems, featuring Sussex County Democratic Chair Zoe Heath. As the youngest county chair, Zoe will share her insights on leadership and political engagement. Tune in on February 18th from 7:00-8:00 PM! RSVP here!

Click Here for more information.