TRENTON, NJ – State Senator Michael Testa (R-1) issued a sharp rebuke Wednesday over what he called the “Democrat Shutdown,” warning that the ongoing federal impasse threatens to disrupt food assistance for struggling New Jersey families.
In a statement released by the New Jersey Senate Republicans, Testa accused Democrats in Washington and Trenton of prioritizing political agendas over the needs of working families.
He called on Governor Phil Murphy to redirect state spending from “wasteful projects” to emergency hunger relief if federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are delayed.
Key Points
• Senator Testa says the federal shutdown threatens SNAP benefits for low-income families
• He urges Governor Murphy to shift state funds toward emergency food assistance
• Testa accuses Democrats of blocking bipartisan negotiations and misusing taxpayer dollars
Testa calls for immediate state action
Testa said his South Jersey district includes many families who depend on SNAP to maintain proper nutrition and avoid hunger. He urged the Murphy administration to act quickly to fill any gaps in federal funding. “Governor Murphy needs to scrap those wasteful pork projects and re-direct that funding toward emergency hunger relief immediately,” Testa said. “This is his opportunity to put people ahead of party and take action to protect those who need it most.”
Criticism of federal and state Democrats
The senator blamed Democratic leaders in Washington for failing to reach a deal to reopen the government, claiming they have voted repeatedly to continue the shutdown. He also criticized the state’s budget priorities, saying funds have been directed toward “pet projects of political insiders” instead of programs that help working families.
SNAP oversight and funding concerns
Testa said while the SNAP program requires tighter oversight to prevent misuse, it remains a vital safety net for seniors, children, and low-income households. “Waste, fraud, and abuse must be rooted out,” he said, “but at the same time, SNAP provides a critical lifeline for low-income families, seniors, and children across South Jersey.”
Political tension over federal impasse
The senator’s comments come amid growing frustration among New Jersey officials over the effects of the federal shutdown on food assistance and social programs. Testa urged state leaders to act independently if Washington remains gridlocked, emphasizing that “every dollar should go toward keeping food on the table for those who need it most.”
