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

June 4, 2026 — 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.”

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