Joseph "Joe" R. Hathaway

Economy

I will fight to reduce unnecessary regulations and compliance costs that hit small businesses hardest. This includes streamlining licensing and permitting processes at the federal level, simplifying tax reporting requirements, and eliminating duplicative paperwork. Big corporations can absorb bureaucracy, but our small businesses can’t. By making it easier to operate and grow, Washington can be a partner, not an obstacle, and help Main Street thrive across NJ-11. Learn more

Education

I support capping federal student loan interest rates, so students and families aren’t punished by compounding interest long after they’ve paid back the original cost of their education. This is a responsible alternative to mass debt forgiveness. It lowers costs, encourages repayment, and protects taxpayers while giving college students a fair shot. Learn more

We need to stop treating skilled trades as a backup plan. I will push for policies that modernize career and technical education, expand access to certifications, and help students move directly from training into well-paying, in-demand jobs. Learn more

Environment / Energy

I will fight policies that have been driving up energy bills by limiting supply or overregulating innovation. Lower prices come from responsible production, modern infrastructure, and smart permitting, not from artificial scarcity that hurts working families. We must also work with our state and local officials to hold our grid operators accountable for cheaper and more reliable supplies. Learn more

Healthcare

I will fight to require hospitals and insurers to publish real, upfront prices for procedures and services so families can plan and budget with confidence. I will also support strong penalties for providers and insurers that hide pricing, and expand access to clear, user-friendly comparison tools so patients can shop for care the same way they do for any other major expense. Transparency creates competition, and competition lowers costs. I also support lowering the cap on Medicare premiums to reduce out-of-pocket costs for seniors, helping them access care without financial stress. Learn more

Housing

I will back a refundable federal tax credit for first-time buyers to help offset upfront costs like closing fees, inspections, and moving expenses, making it easier to get into a home without taking on more debt. Learn more

Homeownership should be within reach for the next generation, not just those who got in early. Right now, rising costs, high interest rates, and growing tax burdens are locking young families and first-time buyers out of the American Dream. That must change. As a Member of Congress, I will fight to eliminate and cut the tax burden on first-time homebuyers so buying a home is a steppingstone, not a financial trap. Learn more

Immigration

Securing our borders is also essential: stopping the flow of fentanyl and other illegal drugs keeps these deadly substances out of our neighborhoods. We must ensure we continue successful investments in technology and Border Patrol presence at our borders and ensure those who wish to enter the country are following our laws and immigration processes. Learn more

Infrastructure / Transportation

For commuters, fewer transfers mean shorter commutes, greater reliability, and a better quality of life. I strongly support expanding One Seat Ride service to and from New York City wherever feasible. Other regions across the country have shown that direct, frequent commuter rail service reduces congestion, increases ridership, strengthens regional economies, and makes communities more attractive for families and employers. North Jersey should benefit from the same forward-thinking investment. Learn more

Taxes / Budget

I support expanding the Child Tax Credit outlined in the Working Families Tax Cut Act, which is delivering meaningful, targeted tax relief to families raising children, especially during the most expensive early years. Working parents should be able to keep more of what they earn while they’re doing the most important job there is: raising their children. In Washington, I will fight to expand the Child Tax Credit to a larger amount. Learn more