Garden State Times

Following the Department of Justice's complaint against the Murphy administration concerning state-run veterans' homes, Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) expressed his criticism of their management. The complaint addresses failures during the pandemic and proposes a consent decree.

"The Murphy administration and Democrat-led legislature failed our veterans with their disastrous management of veterans’ homes during the pandemic," stated Sen. Pennacchio. "They abandoned our heroes during their time of need resulting in hundreds dying because of inadequate medical care and a severe lack of effective management. I welcome the independent monitor and look forward to drastically improved conditions of these homes so our veterans and their families can get the care they deserve."

Senator Pennacchio has consistently criticized the Murphy Administration’s response to COVID-19:

In September 2023, he advocated for a special legislative committee to investigate findings that New Jersey violated veterans' constitutional rights at two state-run memorial homes.

In March 2024, he reviewed the Montgomery McCracken COVID Report, questioning its cost-effectiveness.

In April 2024, amid former NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s testimony, he called for accountability from the Murphy administration and renewed his call for a full investigation into New Jersey’s COVID policies.

Additionally, Pennacchio made at least five requests for committee hearings through the Senate, which were dismissed by the Democrat majority.