Veterans Endorse Scott Garrett, Claim He Supported Legislation He Actually Voted Against

GLEN ROCK, N.J. — A group of veterans endorsed Rep. Scott Garrett and mentioned legislation he co-sponsored, the Zadroga Act, in the endorsement as a reason for why people should re-elect him.

One problem: Garrett voted against the final legislation, which provided health care and compensation for first responders. Garrett did co-sponsor the bill, but opposed spending the $1.1 trillion included in its provisions, stating that the legislation did not, “do enough to address our nation’s crippling debt, protect civil liberties, nor strengthen our national security.”

The seven-term incumbent touted Veterans for Garrett’s support in an email to constituents Tuesday.

“The sacrifices made by these brave men and women are the reason we are able to enjoy our freedom and liberty today,” Garrett said in a statement. “I am incredibly honored that the members of this coalition have agreed to join me in this re-election effort so that I may continue to serve those who have served our state and our nation.”

The state Policemen’s Benevolent Association and the state Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association have endorsed Garrett’s opponent, Josh Gottheimer, because Garrett voted against the legislation.

The group also touted the Republican’s effort to bring a new Veterans Affairs clinic in Newton, backed legislation to establish a center to treat problems caused by toxic chemical that veterans were exposed to, and to try and reduce wait times at veterans’ health care facilities.

“We are dedicated to the appropriate recognition of all veterans for the sacrifices they have made on behalf of our great nation and to assuring prompt and proper medical care for them upon their return to civilian life,” the group said in an open letter. Thus, we are proud to announce our support for Congressman Scott Garrett and it is our hope that he will be able to count on your support as well.”

Gottheimer, a former speechwriter for President Bill Clinton from Wyckoff, blasted Garrett for touting the support.

"Apparently, Scott Garrett lied about his support for the Zadroga Act, so he could convince veterans and first responders to vote for him. If Garrett lied to them about the Zadroga Act, did he also lie about his stance on other veterans issues like his opposition to prosthetic limbs, job training, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder support for vets? It’s despicable that when Scott Garrett is in Washington he opposes programs for our veterans, but when he's in New Jersey looking for votes, he'll lie and tell our servicemen and women that he supports them."

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com

Photo: Rep. Scott Garrett, photo via Wikimedia Commons, used with permission