In a letter to the editor, Jersey City resident Aaron Weiner explains why he feels that U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer’s (D-5) record on issues that impact Latinos show he is not governor material.
Dear Editor,
On May 5th, Josh Gottheimer staged another press conference claiming to be the champion of New Jersey’s Latino community. His words ring hollow when compared to his consistent record of actions that have harmed these very communities.
On May 1st, Gottheimer was conspicuously missing from the Latino Action Network’s gubernatorial forum.
In attendance were most other democratic candidates including Steven Fulop, Mikie Sherrill, Sean Spiller and Ras Baraka. Even Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli, who could not make it in person, at least took the time to make a video for the event.
Gottheimer just would not make it a priority. This is a trend. We don’t see him at other Latino-based events. How can someone claim to represent a community they won’t spend any time with?
His voting record reveals the truth.
In June 2019, Gottheimer played a pivotal role in pushing through a $4.6 billion emergency border aid package that directed $280 million to ICE and $1 billion to Customs and Border Protection – while blocking requirements for improved conditions for detained children.
When 95 of his Democratic colleagues opposed this bill on humanitarian grounds, Gottheimer stood with Republicans.
This pattern continued with his February 2024 co-sponsorship of the Defending Borders,
Defending Democracies Act to reinstate Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy, and his support for Sen. Graham’s October 2023 bill focusing on “border security” rather than humanitarian concerns.
When confronted by constituents at town halls about these votes, he has consistently defended these positions.
New Jersey deserves a governor who genuinely represents our diverse communities, not someone whose actions contradict their campaign rhetoric.
If Gottheimer’s congressional record is any indication, his governorship would likely continue policies that harm immigrant families and Latino communities throughout our state.
Other Democratic candidates like Steve Fulop have demonstrated far more consistent support for Latino issues through both their words and actions.
I urge voters to consider this troubling disconnect between Gottheimer’s claims and his actual record when making their decision in the upcoming primary.
Respectfully,
Aaron Weiner,
Jersey City resident
