Murphy slams GOP spending bill, urges NJ Republicans to oppose it
TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy sharply criticized a Republican-backed federal spending bill Wednesday, warning that it would jeopardize health care and food assistance programs while driving up energy costs for millions of Americans.
“This GOP spending bill is a betrayal of the American people — and especially the people of New Jersey,” Murphy wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
Murphy said the proposal could strip health care from 17 million people and result in millions of children, veterans, and seniors losing access to food assistance. He also claimed the bill would increase household energy expenses.
The governor specifically called on New Jersey Republican Representatives Tom Kean Jr., Jeff Van Drew, and Chris Smith to oppose the measure, which has not yet come to a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“There is still time to stop the chaos,” Murphy posted. “All we need is a handful of courageous votes in the House of Representatives.”
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The bill is part of a broader GOP effort to reduce federal spending. Supporters argue it would curb inflation and reduce the national deficit. Opponents, including Murphy, say the cuts disproportionately target vulnerable populations while preserving tax benefits for the wealthy.
Murphy’s public appeal comes as negotiations in Washington continue over the budget plan’s final form.
The governor’s message intensifies pressure on New Jersey Republicans ahead of a potential House vote.