Happy New Year! Wishing you all a prosperous, healthy, and great 2019.

On this joyous day of celebration, we are grateful for our many blessings. Debbie and I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas!

Despite the dysfunction in Washington, we extended the NFIP through May and South Jerseyans and 140 million Americans living in coastal counties will have flood insurance coverage. I will continue fighting for South Jerseyans through the finish line. macarthur.house.gov/media-center/p…

I'm glad to see Congress fulfill our commitment to the victims, survivors, families, and heroes of 9/11. This law will provide funding for the security and operation of the 9/11 memorial in NYC, so future generations may safely visit and #NeverForget the 3,000 Americans we lost.

Sec. Mattis is a patriot. His lifetime of service reflects his love of country & commitment to our men and women in uniform. He is right that to protect our interests, we must strengthen our alliances. We also can't ignore the threat from adversaries like China, Iran, and Russia.

I once again voted for the #FarmBill . This bill supports farmers & ranchers, expands trade opportunities, provides affordable crop insurance that's critical to protect NJ farms, and improves conservation programs—all important to our state's ag industry. macarthur.house.gov/media-center/p…

Debbie and I are saddened by the passing of Freeholder John Bartlett. He honorably served the people of Ocean County for 40 years and under his leadership, our community prospered. John's friendship, service, and legacy will never be forgotten.

To all our friends in the South Jersey Jewish community, I wish you a joyous first night of Hanukkah. Chag Sameach!

President George H.W. Bush was a family man, a war hero, and a dedicated public servant - a decent man who made this world a better place. His influence and impact will be remembered for generations to come.

Since day 1, I've said I'll do whatever is necessary to ensure the NFIP doesn't lapse and protect South Jersey residents & 140 million Americans living in coastal counties. A lame duck Congress won't stop me from fighting for what's best for South Jersey. macarthur.house.gov/media-center/p…

Debbie and I wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving. We are so thankful for all of our blessings - our beautiful family, living in the greatest nation on earth, the opportunity to serve our country in Congress, and the many good people we’ve met along the way.

Thank you to the selfless men and women who’ve answered the call of duty. We must never forget the many sacrifices veterans and their families have made to protect our nation. Today and every day, we honor their service and bravery. #VeteransDay

Happy birthday to the U.S. Marines. The Marines have faithfully served our nation for 243 years and we thank them for keeping us safe and fighting for our freedoms. Semper Fi.

Last week I visited the veteran-owned Backward Flag Brewing in Forked River. Today U.S. Department of Labor awarded them with the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans medallion. Congrats! Your commitment to local South Jersey veterans does not go unnoticed.

As a son of a veteran, it’s always great spending time with American heroes. Rep. Chris Smith and I recently visited the American Legion Department of New Jersey for its Centennial Gala in Ocean County. Thank you to our service members and veterans for their service to our nation.

Some more good news about our booming economy.

From NBC News: “‘Consumers do not foresee the economy losing steam anytime soon,’ said Lynn Franco, an economist for the Conference Board, which calculates the Consumer Confidence Index.”

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and I always enjoy visiting local restaurants and shops. In Toms River, I met with staff at a great new Italian restaurant, and they showed me around the kitchen. Their optimism and excitement was incredible—as was their food!

Great meeting with the Mount Laurel Fire Department to discuss issues facing firefighters. I’ve been a consistent supporter of SAFER grants and worked to ensure that there were no changes to the World Trade Center Health Program. Thanks to all first responders for their service.

From Bloomberg: “American workers enjoyed the biggest leap in pay since 2009 as job gains topped forecasts and the unemployment rate held at a 48-year low.”