Senator Andy Kim, a U.S. Senator representing New Jersey’s 3rd district since 2019, posted a series of statements on October 3, 2025, addressing the ongoing government shutdown and its effects on national infrastructure and healthcare.
In his first post at 15:22 UTC, Kim questioned the political motivations behind funding decisions for a major infrastructure project. He wrote, “Can’t you just find the courage to say funding for the Gateway tunnel project is a national priority and should never be turned off, especially for political reasons? It’s not that hard. Also, maybe you should’ve showed up to work this week to help negotiate the end to this”.
Later that day at 16:43 UTC, Kim highlighted public concern over the shutdown in local communities. He stated, “Conversations about the government shutdown are happening all over the country, including in Jersey diners. Looking forward to sharing more about my conversations with federal workers and people who will be impacted by the skyrocketing healthcare costs as I bring these stories”.
At 19:23 UTC, Kim criticized House leadership regarding healthcare policy during the shutdown. He posted, “Simply shameful. Speaker Johnson has resorted to holding our healthcare hostage, extending House Republicans’ paid vacation to avoid lowering costs and doing their jobs for the American people. Be a leader, this shutdown requires one.”
The Gateway Tunnel Project referenced by Kim is a significant infrastructure initiative connecting New Jersey and New York City via rail tunnels under the Hudson River. Funding for this project has been subject to political debate in recent years.
Kim’s comments come amid heightened tensions in Congress over government spending and efforts to resolve a partial government shutdown impacting federal workers and services nationwide.
Andy Kim was born in Boston in 1982 and currently resides in Moorestown. He graduated from Deep Springs College in 2002 and earned his BA from the University of Chicago in 2004.
