Van Drew, Jeff RSS Articles

Congressman Van Drew Calls on Governor Sherrill to Bring State Police Back to Delaney Hall

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew sent a letter to Governor Sherrill calling on her to bring New Jersey State Police back to Delaney Hall ICE facility to work with local law enforcement and restore order.

"We are a nation of laws, and this is America," said Congressman Van Drew. "What we have seen outside Delaney Hall has been more like anarchy than peaceful protests. Peaceful demonstrations are the spirit of America. Violence and chaos are not. When protests turn violent, law enforcement must step in and work together. Governor Sherrill made the right call when she brought in State Police to work with Newark police. I was there. People were able to demonstrate peacefully, and the violent individuals were removed. That is exactly how it should work. Now she needs to bring them back. It is bizarre that this violence is being allowed when we have the resources to keep people safe. This is dangerous for the community, dangerous for officers, dangerous for the workers in the facility, and dangerous for the detainees inside. Somebody is going to get seriously hurt.

"Let's be honest. These are not all organic protests. People are coming in from outside the area to manufacture disorder. Whether you agree with ICE or not, state, county, and local officials have a responsibility to keep the peace. Governor Sherrill should bring State Police back, work with law enforcement, and put public safety first."

Click here to read the letter.

Congressman Van Drew Advances More Than $43 Million in South Jersey Priorities Through House Appropriations Committee

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced that more than $43 million in funding for South Jersey projects and priorities has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations process. Next, the funding will go to the House floor for a full vote.

"Every year, I work to bring as much as possible back to South Jersey, and this year is no different," said Congressman Van Drew. "For the sixth year in a row, our district is number one in congressionally directed spending projects. We are moving more than $43 million forward this year because the people of South Jersey deserve results. These projects reach every corner of the district, with all six counties receiving support. There is still work to do before these projects become law, but I am proud to have helped move them forward and will keep fighting to get them across the finish line. This is only the beginning of making up for all the years South Jersey was forgotten."

Projects to Receive Funding:

AtlantiCare All-Inclusive Care Facility for Veterans and Elderly - $1,000,000
Middle Township No Limits Boxing Academy for Troubled Youth- $300,000
Maurice River Township Fire Truck - $613,250
Elsinboro Fire Truck - $864,375
Woolwich Township Fire Truck - $613,250
Wildwood Fire Truck - $546,600
City of Vineland Mobile Command Vehicle - $1,666,000
Lawrence Township Ambulance - $600,000
Salem County Sluice Gate Flood Mitigation - $1,000,000
Great Egg Harbor River Watershed Revitalization - $1,050,000
Brigantine Seawall Investigation - $50,000
Beach Replenishment for Atlantic City, Ventnor, Margate, Longport - $30,000,000
Stafford Township Mud City Sewer Improvements - $1,000,000
Port Republic Mill Street Dam Improvements - $1,725,000
Atlantic County Aviation Business Park Electric Utility Connection - $1,000,000
Hammonton Airport Improvements - $1,500,000

Congressman Van Drew Meets with Breeze Airways Leadership, Announces Major Expansion in Atlantic City

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew met with senior officials from Breeze Airways to discuss the airline's growing presence at Atlantic City International Airport and its plans to expand service for New Jersey travelers.

"Breeze Airways is stepping up to expand service in Atlantic City in a big way," said Congressman Van Drew. "By the end of the year, we expect every route previously offered by Spirit out of Atlantic City to be served, while also adding brand new destinations that Spirit did not provide. They are ready, willing, and well-positioned to support travel to and from South Jersey. I have been working for years to strengthen the Atlantic City International Airport by bringing in major investments and constantly working to improve its infrastructure. The airport has a bright future, and this expansion is just another sign that airlines see the potential here. I am proud to work with Breeze Airways on this, and I look forward to affordable, convenient air travel continuing to grow for the people of South Jersey."

"We are incredibly pleased with the response we've seen from the community in Atlantic City. It's rare for us to announce so many new routes before ever beginning service, but in this case, the demand for Breeze's high-value, low-cost service was clear from the start," said Lukas Johnson, Chief Commercial Officer at Breeze Airways. "With seven nonstop destinations now operating or available for sale - and with more on the way soon - Breeze offers more destinations from ACY than any other carrier, and we're grateful to our partners in New Jersey for making it possible."

Congressman Van Drew Slams Gov. Sherrill's Plan to Spend $20.2 Million Defending Illegal Immigrants While New Jersey Families Struggle

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew released the following statement condemning Governor Sherrill's decision to increase funding for New Jersey's Detention and Deportation Defense Initiative by an additional $12 million, bringing the total taxpayer-funded program to more than $20 million. The funding is intended to provide legal assistance to individuals facing deportation and detention proceedings.

"New Jersey families are being crushed by some of the highest electric bills, property taxes, and costs of living in the entire country, and Governor Sherrill's answer is to spend more than $20 million defending illegal immigrants," said Congressman Van Drew. "It is a complete insult to every hardworking taxpayer in this state. New Jersey citizens should come first. If they can find $20 million for immigration lawyers, they can find money to lower utility delivery charges or provide relief to the people who actually live, work, and pay taxes here. Every dollar spent helping illegal immigrants avoid deportation is a dollar that is not being spent helping New Jersey families afford to stay in New Jersey."

Congressman Van Drew Tours Delaney Hall Detention Center

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Newark, N.J. - Today, Congressman Van Drew toured the Delaney Hall Detention Facility to see the conditions, operations, and law enforcement response for himself.

"I toured Delaney Hall today because I wanted to see the facts with my own eyes," said Congressman Van Drew. "What I saw was very different from the political story being pushed by some of my Democrat colleagues. The facility has doctors, nurses, and dentists providing medical care. There is a law library for detainees to study their cases along with a regular library, and large spaces for recreation, including a soccer field and a gym. The food service provides menu options for religious needs, kosher meals, allergies, and other dietary restrictions. I saw good conditions, clean facilities, basic care, and a detention center where ICE and DHS are doing a hard job that keeps our communities safe. Quite frankly, the conditions I saw today are better than what you see in some nursing homes. Let's be honest about who is being held here. These are illegal immigrants with criminal histories involving drug trafficking, weapons charges, assault, fraud, money laundering, cocaine distribution, and other serious offenses. They are exactly the kind of people ICE should be taking off our streets.

"Americans have every right to peacefully protest, but when you throw objects at officers, assault law enforcement, block federal agents, and riot outside a detention facility, you are breaking the law. Local police must keep working with ICE, DHS, and federal law enforcement to maintain order. ICE and DHS are doing their job, and I will continue to stand with the men and women who protect the American people."

Congressman Van Drew Announces Nearly $8.8 Million Grant for Atlantic City Airport

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew announced that the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) will receive $8,777,683 in federal funding through the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Infrastructure Grant program. The funding will support the construction of the new 3,800-foot Taxiway R to help strengthen airport operations.

"Atlantic City International Airport is one of the most important economic engines in South Jersey, and this investment is going to help ensure it continues growing and competing for years to come," said Congressman Van Drew. "At the same time, my office has been in ongoing conversations with airlines to expand air service in South Jersey that will fully replace Spirit. I think people are going to be excited about what is ahead, and there will be more announcements coming soon. ACY has a strong future, and we are only going to keep building on this momentum."

"On behalf of the entire South Jersey Transportation Authority, we thank Congressman Van Drew for securing this critical $8.7 million investment for the Atlantic City International Airport," said Stephen F. Dougherty, SJTA Executive Director. "This funding moves Phase 3 of our Taxiway R improvement project forward and represents a major step toward bringing the airport into conformity with current aviation standards. The construction of more than 2,700 feet of grading and drainage infrastructure is essential groundwork for the future 3,800-foot taxiway and will enhance operational safety, efficiency, and long-term growth opportunities for the airport. We are grateful for Congressman Van Drew's continued support of transportation infrastructure and economic development in South Jersey."

Van Drew, Bera, Boozman, and Booker Launch International Exchanges Caucus

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Representatives Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ, 2), Ami Bera (D-CA, 6), and U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the launch of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. The members are launching this caucus to bolster engagement and support for international exchange programs, particularly those administered by the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

“International exchange programs are a smart investment in America’s future," said Congressman Van Drew. "They strengthen our relationships around the world and give people a firsthand look at our American values and our way of life. In South Jersey, the impact is clear. Programs like BridgeUSA help support our shore economy each summer, giving small businesses the workforce they need during our busiest time of year. I am proud to help launch this bipartisan caucus to support these programs."

“Educational and cultural exchange programs are among our most effective tools for building goodwill, strengthening our alliances, and advancing American values and strategic interests. These programs create lasting people-to-people ties that build mutual understanding and open doors for cooperation on shared challenges. I am pleased to help launch this bipartisan caucus to ensure Congress continues to support and strengthen these critical programs so they remain effective, sustainable, and central to America’s global leadership," said Representative Ami Bera.

“Cultural exchange is foundational to effective diplomacy, and strengthening our nation’s investment in these initiatives will encourage greater collaboration and mutually beneficial relationships for generations to come. Arkansas has played an outsized role in those efforts over many years, and we have seen firsthand how it can change the world. I’m proud to help launch the Congressional International Exchange Caucus and look forward to the opportunity to bolster this mission in a bipartisan, bicameral way," said Senator John Boozman.

“I am thrilled to join my colleagues in launching the first bipartisan, bicameral Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. Exchange programs strengthen all parts of American society and give back to local communities around the country. They help the United States remain internationally competitive, bolster our nation’s economy, and dramatically increase the United States’ global reach while enhancing national security. Through creation of this caucus, I am proud to continue the long tradition of bipartisan support for international exchanges and look forward to working with my colleagues to secure strong, sustained backing for these proven, cost-effective programs," said Senator Cory Booker.

International exchange programs provide unique opportunities for Americans to experience the world and develop critical skills. The Congressional International Exchanges Caucus is the platform for Members of Congress to hear directly from these Americans, their constituents, about the impact of international exchange programs on their states and districts. Finally, the Caucus enables its members to ensure ECA’s long-term programmatic sustainability and success by offering exclusive opportunities to engage with Administration officials on the latest topics impacting international exchange programs.

“International exchange programs are major contributors to the U.S.’ success at home and on the world stage and have long enjoyed bipartisan support. The creation of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus reflects that enduring commitment and showcases Congress’ continued investment in the success of these programs. The Alliance for International Exchange proudly supports the caucus and looks forward to working with its members to promote and protect international exchange programs," said Mark Overmann, Executive Director, Alliance for International Exchange.

“As Chair of the Board of the Alliance for International Exchange, I am proud to support the establishment of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. This bipartisan effort recognizes that exchange programs are a cornerstone of American national security. By bringing emerging leaders to our shores and sending Americans to live, work, and study in regions of strategic importance, the U.S. reinforces its position through investment in American soft power. With the caucus now official, we look forward to advancing policies that protect these vital programs, ensuring they continue to serve as a high-return investment in American influence and security," said Tara Hofmann, CEO and President, AFS-USA.

Congressman Van Drew Introduces Bill to Suspend Federal Gas Tax

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced he is introducing legislation to suspend the federal gas tax for 18 months to lower costs for American families. The bill would eliminate the current federal fuel taxes, including 18.3 cents per gallon on gasoline, 24.3 cents per gallon on diesel fuel and kerosene, and 19.3 cents per gallon on aviation gasoline. After 18 months, the taxes would gradually phase back in slowly instead of returning all at once.

"Americans are paying too much for gas right now, and the federal government can help relieve some of that pressure," said Congressman Van Drew. "My bill would completely suspend the federal fuel taxes for 18 months, so people are no longer paying those extra taxes per gallon every time they fill up their tank. That money adds up fast for families commuting to work or anyone who depends on their car every single day. This would put money back into people's pockets immediately. After 18 months, the taxes would slowly phase back in over time instead of hitting people all at once again.

"While we can address the federal gas tax in Congress, New Jersey's gas tax is controlled by the governor and state leaders. New Jersey drivers are paying roughly 49 cents per gallon in state gas taxes on top of everything else. I am calling on Governor Sherrill to suspend the state gas tax in a similar structure. Working families need real relief, and they need it now."

Congressman Van Drew Slams Big Oil for Profiting While Americans Pay More at the Pump

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew criticized major oil companies as gas prices remain high and continue to strain American families.

"These companies are taking advantage of the situation, plain and simple," said Congressman Van Drew. "What is happening in the Middle East is being used as an excuse to maximize profits while hardworking Americans are stuck paying absurd prices. We have strong production here in the United States. We have supply. Prices should not be this high without companies doing everything they can to bring some relief to the people. These are American companies, and they should act like it. Put the American people and our own economy first. We can and should do better."

Congressman Van Drew Responds to Spirit Airlines Shutdown, Applauds Relief Efforts, Highlights Atlantic City Airport Readiness

Sat, 02 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew issued the following statement after the sudden shutdown of Spirit Airlines and the announcement of federal relief measures to assist impacted passengers and employees.

"The Department of Transportation is working with major airlines to cap fares and help stranded passengers get where they need to go, while also opening doors for Spirit employees to find new opportunities across the aviation industry," said Congressman Van Drew. "That is the right approach to stabilize things quickly and protect people caught in the middle of this situation. Here at home, we are prepared. Atlantic City International Airport is in a strong position, and I want to recognize the South Jersey Transportation Authority for doing the work ahead of time to handle challenges like this. Allegiant and Breeze are already positioned at Atlantic City and ready to step up and expand services where needed. I will do anything I can to help. My office is in contact with stakeholders, and we are focused on making sure South Jersey families and workers are supported every step of the way."