PITTSTOWN, N.J. — U.S. Senator Andy Kim criticized recent Republican-led legislation during a visit to solar panel installations in Hunterdon County, warning it could threaten jobs and New Jersey’s competitive edge in renewable energy.
Kim toured the facilities on Friday, meeting with workers and industry leaders involved in the state’s solar sector. He said the tour highlighted how the state is “helping to make NJ a leader in the solar industry,” but warned that progress could be undermined.
“Those jobs and our competitiveness are at risk of going away because of the votes Rep. Tom Kean Jr. and other Republicans took to pass their Big Disastrous Bill,” Kim said on social media.
He did not specify the legislation by name, but was referring to a Republican-supported appropriations bill that included cuts to clean energy programs. The measure, passed in the House last month, has been criticized by Democrats for slashing funds that support renewable energy development and climate initiatives.
Kim said the cuts jeopardize not only local employment but also America’s global standing in the solar market, which is currently dominated by China.
“It’s going to take a lot to reverse these cuts and restore those opportunities,” he said, adding that he plans to “work with our neighbors to get it done.”
The visit comes as Kim continues his campaign for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by indicted Sen. Bob Menendez.
The senator’s remarks underline ongoing partisan divisions over federal energy policy and domestic manufacturing priorities.
