Senator Michael Testa (R-01) has voiced concern over the effects of the ongoing federal government shutdown on New Jersey families relying on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. In a statement released on October 29, 2025, Testa attributed the shutdown to Democratic lawmakers in Washington and highlighted its impact on residents in his district.
“Democrats have once again chosen politics over the people, and now hardworking New Jerseyans are paying the price. Because of Washington’s dysfunction, many families in my district are facing the heartbreaking possibility of going hungry,” Testa said.
He criticized recent budget decisions at the state level, saying: “It’s no secret that Democrats in the Legislature recently enacted a State budget that funnels hundreds of millions of dollars toward the pet projects of political insiders. Governor Murphy needs to scrap those wasteful pork projects and re-direct that funding toward emergency hunger relief immediately. This is his opportunity to put people ahead of party and take action to protect those who need it most.”
Testa also called for increased oversight of SNAP: “There’s no question that the SNAP program needs stronger oversight. Waste, fraud, and abuse must be rooted out to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and that benefits go to those who truly qualify. But at the same time, SNAP provides a critical lifeline for low-income families, seniors, and children across South Jersey, helping them avoid hunger and maintain proper nutrition.”
He further criticized Democratic lawmakers at both federal and state levels: “This potential hunger crisis is entirely manufactured. Thirteen times, Democrats in Washington, including Cory Booker and Andy Kim, voted to keep the government shut down rather than come to the table and work toward a bipartisan solution. Every one of those votes put politics ahead of people. Democrats would rather spend taxpayer dollars on healthcare for illegal immigrants than help our most vulnerable New Jerseyans. Until they are willing to put New Jersey families first, Governor Murphy must break from his party’s obstruction and be the adult in the room. Enough is enough. It is time to end the waste and abuse in Trenton’s budget and make sure every dollar goes toward keeping food on the table for those who need it.”
The senator’s comments reflect growing concern about how disruptions at both federal and state levels could affect essential services like SNAP for vulnerable populations in New Jersey.
