Tom Kean Jr. Under Fire for Supporting Trump’s Spending Bill Amid Strong Criticism from Democrats
New Jersey—July 28, 2025: Congressman Tom Kean Jr. is facing intense criticism after voting in favor of a major federal spending bill, often referred to as Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill.” Rutgers is going to hire Keli Zinn as its new athletic director, and the school’s new president supports the move.
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“I fought hard to restore SALT relief and stood up to both parties to make sure New Jersey families got the tax breaks they deserve,” Kean stated. He also said that the bill improves national security, border control, and energy independence, and that it encourages new ideas through R&D tax credits.
But Democrats all over the state quickly spoke out against the bill and Kean’s backing for it. They say the bill will make it more expensive for working families to live and cut money from important programs like Medicaid and SNAP that help low-income people with food and medical care.
The head of the New Jersey Democratic Party, LeRoy Jones Jr., said that Kean and other Republican congressmen had put their loyalty to Trump ahead of their voters. “This bill is a disaster for New Jersey. It raises healthcare premiums, cuts Medicaid, and increases utility bills—all while giving tax breaks to billionaires,” said Jones.
Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy pilot and one of Kean’s possible challengers in the upcoming election, called the vote “a betrayal” of local families. “Tom Kean Jr. just helped push through a bill that makes life harder for thousands of people in our district. This isn’t leadership—it’s a failure of duty.”
Tina Shah, a physician with experience in both the Obama and Biden administrations, also criticized Kean’s decision. “As a doctor, I’ve seen how vital Medicaid is to saving lives. Cutting that funding for the sake of giving more to the wealthy is unacceptable,” she said.
Businessman Brian Verala, another potential Democratic candidate, said Kean’s vote favored Trump’s agenda at the cost of healthcare and financial security for everyday families. “He had a choice to protect us or protect Trump. He chose Trump.”
Senator Andy Kim, who has also voiced concerns, described the bill as “reckless” and “cruel.” He accused Kean and two other Republican congressmen of continuing the SALT deduction cap and slashing benefits for seniors and the poor. “This bill is a direct attack on vulnerable communities,” Kim said. “It’s heartbreaking and shameful.”
Despite the criticism, Kean continues to stand by his vote. He claims the bill will bring transparency, help with infrastructure, and even reimburse local law enforcement for expenses when Trump visits his residence in Bedminster. He also noted that New Jersey’s healthcare sector will receive additional federal support starting next year.
With a tight re-election battle ahead, Kean’s support of Trump’s flagship legislation could play a major role in shaping his political future—and that of his father’s respected legacy. Whether New Jersey voters see the bill as a win or a warning remains to be seen.
