Excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)

In the House of Representatives—March 3, 2021

Mr. Speaker, the precious right to vote in free and fair elections at all levels in the United States will be seriously jeopardized if H.R. 1 becomes law.

RED BANK — There are encouraging signs for Red Bank nonprofits —especially the Count Basie Center for the Arts and the Red Bank Fire Department (RBFD) — as they look for assistance from the federal government during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-4).

Results from Tuesday’s election show Rep. Chris Smith is winning in all three counties — Monmouth, Ocean, and Mercer — translating to a decisive re-election victory, with more positive results expected to be reported over the next few days.

“Smith has proven himself a survivor…a Republican able to maintain his appeal in a state that is more sapphire than ruby.  The blue wave failed to sweep him away….Smith’s roots run deep and have served him and his constituencies well.  No Democrat should approach Smith with any illusions of an easy fight.” – John Van Vliet, InsiderNJ, Nov. 4th

As the coronavirus pandemic was peaking in New Jersey, Chris Smith worked non-stop to cut through red tape and get his constituents the tests, medicines and PPE we needed.

Chris personally intervened with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to secure the release of 41 million pairs of medical grade gloves that were wrongly embargoed.

Within 24 hours of Chris’ intervention, the gloves were released and on the way to medical personnel and first responders on the front lines of the public health crisis.

Chris’ leadership made a huge difference in our district getting federal fund to fight COVID and sustain our local economy.  Nationally, he supported all five COVID relief laws garnering $3 trillion for stimulus payments, unemployment benefits and the Paycheck Protection Program to sustain NJ small businesses and help workers.

And while it’s the state’s job, Chris jumped and helped hundreds break through red tape and get their unemployment benefits.  Chris continues to fight the NJ bureaucracy to secure full benefits for those still waiting.

“We need elected officials who can see beyond party and politics…Too many politicians offers lip service or run away…We believe you will take action in those times when we need it most,” Pat Colligan, President of the NJ State PBA said of Rep. Smith.

“Chris Smith has always been there for the women and men in law enforcement. Chris is dedicated to public safety and the rule of law and works tirelessly to make sure our police have the support and resources we need to protect New Jersey families and keep our communities safe for everyone,” said Bob Fox, President of the NJ Fraternal Order of Police.

Steve McConlogue, President of the Professional Firefighters Association of NJ: “Chris Smith has been a consistent and influential advocate for firefighters and other emergency responders…Chris helped secure federal funding to purchase essential personal protective equipment needed to protect our firefighters during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.”

Ed Donnelly, President of the NJ Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, on Rep. Smith and slate of endorsed candidates: “Each of these endorsed candidates have shown that when times are tough they are willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with New Jersey’s career firefighters, EMTs, and dispatchers.”

Unemployment  “I am writing to express my gratitude for helping me finally get my unemployment problem solved.  I would never have been able to get anywhere without your help” -Denis, Manchester

Social Security  “I am writing…to thank Congressman Chris Smith… A few months ago I ran in to a most unusual and apparently insurmountable problem with Social Security…Someone suggested I contact…Rep. Smith as he is well known for finding solutions for seemingly unsolvable problems…His staff responded promptly, took swift action on my behalf and within just a few short weeks…resolve[d] this problem for me.” -Virginia, Ocean Grove

Chris is a prolific legislator, ranking second among all 435 members of the House in writing bills that successfully become law.  His success is due in part to his ingenuity and ability to reach across the aisle and win bipartisan support for key initiatives.

In its most recent non-partisan study, the Lugar Center along with Georgetown University, named Chris Smith in the top 1% of most bipartisan lawmakers. And this year, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded Chris with its inaugural Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship for forging “common sense solutions built from a durable political center.”