TRENTON, N.J. — Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco on Friday condemned the state budget process led by Democrats, calling it rushed and lacking transparency.
In a statement issued June 27, Bucco criticized the majority party for what he described as a secretive approach to budget negotiations, which he claimed undermines public accountability and good governance.
“The way Trenton Democrats are running our state budget process is not just shameful, it’s the complete opposite of what good government looks like,” Bucco said.
He further alleged that the budget process included “last-minute deals and political favors pushed through in the dead of night” and blamed this method for contributing to New Jersey’s ongoing fiscal issues.
The statement follows ongoing budget deliberations in Trenton, where legislative leaders are working to finalize a state spending plan ahead of the start of the new fiscal year.
Budget talks prompt partisan clash
Bucco’s remarks reflect broader Republican concerns over budget procedures that they argue have become increasingly opaque. The specific contents of the budget in question have not yet been made public.
Democratic leaders have not yet responded to Bucco’s statement, and no detailed timeline for a vote on the budget bill has been released.
This is not the first time GOP lawmakers have criticized the Democratic majority over budget transparency. Similar claims were raised in previous years as budget deadlines approached.
The Legislature is expected to vote on the state budget before the end of the month to avoid a government shutdown.
