Sen. Andy Kim Vows to Defend New Jersey Families, Criticizes Shutdown Impact
Kim pledges to fight for workers, immigrants, and healthcare access as federal gridlock continues.
MONTCLAIR — U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) told local journalists that protecting democracy, defending vulnerable communities, and ensuring fairness in government remain his top priorities during a virtual press briefing hosted by the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University on Monday, October 13, 2025.
The event, moderated by Anthony Advincula, Director of Ethnic Media Initiatives, brought together reporters from community and ethnic outlets statewide to discuss issues ranging from the ongoing government shutdown to healthcare, immigration, and the Gateway Tunnel project.
Kim, the first Korean American elected to the U.S. Senate and the first Asian American to represent New Jersey, said he feels a “deep responsibility to reflect the diversity of our state.” He emphasized that his focus remains on listening to local voices and ensuring that all residents — from immigrants to federal workers — are represented in Washington.
Shutdown Impact on New Jersey Families
Kim criticized what he called “Republican obstruction” for prolonging the government shutdown, which has left thousands of federal employees working without pay. “They control the White House, the Senate, and the House,” Kim said. “Yet they refuse to negotiate. This is hurting everyday people who rely on government services.”
The senator also warned that the shutdown and related budget cuts could have a disproportionate impact on low-income and minority communities. He cited reductions to programs such as WIC and Medicaid that serve millions of families across the state.
Immigration and Civil Rights
Kim, who serves on the Homeland Security Committee, said he has made oversight of immigration enforcement a priority. He condemned aggressive tactics by ICE and opposed the Trump administration’s plan to convert Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst into a temporary detention center.
“Our military bases should be places of protection, not detention,” Kim said.
He promised to continue pressing for transparency and accountability. Kim also acknowledged concerns about Islamophobia and anti-immigrant rhetoric, noting that he regularly meets with Muslim, South Asian, and other communities to “stay connected to the real fears and hopes people are feeling.”
Protecting Checks and Balances
In response to questions about growing concerns over executive power, Kim compared current conditions to those he witnessed abroad as a diplomat.
“I never thought I’d see mob boss tactics here at home,” he said. “We don’t have three functioning branches of government right now because Congressional Republican leadership has abdicated its responsibility.”
Kim reaffirmed his oath to defend the Constitution rather than any political party. “The Constitution is what I swear to protect — not a president,” Kim added.
Investing in the Future
Addressing student debt, Kim said he supports expanding Pell Grants, reducing loan interest rates, and linking repayment to income. He also expressed concern for healthcare coverage, especially for the 350,000 New Jersey residents enrolled in NJ FamilyCare.
On infrastructure, Kim criticized the federal government’s decision to stall Gateway Tunnel funding, calling it “political revenge that hurts working commuters.”
Despite the challenges, Kim urged optimism and civic engagement. “The opposite of democracy is apathy,” Kim said. “I hope young people see that things can change when we get involved — starting with the elections right here in New Jersey.”
Editor’s Note: The press briefing was hosted by the Center for Cooperative Media’s Ethnic and Community Media Initiative, which connects local and independent journalists across New Jersey with policymakers and public officials.
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