Ad Depicts Democratic Activist as Average Voter in New Jersey, Misrepresents Trump’s Medicaid Changes

Democrats’ Claims About Republican Medicaid Reforms Under Scrutiny

Democrats have been delivering a misleading narrative regarding Republican efforts to reform Medicaid, with some dubious tactics in their messaging.

The activist group “Out of Our Economy” has been vocal in its criticism, channeling over $200,000 into advertisements targeting Republican Rep. Tom Keene Jr. from New Jersey, particularly related to his vote on a significant legislative bill.

These advertisements, while meant to resonate with the public, contain misleading information. The spokesperson featured in these ads, identified as “Teresa,” is not just an ordinary voter; she is Teresa Grimm Rooni, a longtime Democratic activist known for her vocal opposition to perceived Republican cuts to Medicaid.

In May 2025, Rooni participated in a virtual town hall hosted by ACLU New Jersey, sharing concerns that echoed sentiments from the “Our Economyless” advertisements. “Medicaid is under threat, which impacts real lives and futures,” she stated, emphasizing her personal stake as a caregiver to two autistic children.

Rooni has also been active in rallying against proposed Medicaid reductions in the House version of a legislative bill that ultimately did not pass through the Senate.

At a rally for Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna in April, she reiterated the real-world consequences of potential Medicaid cuts, remarking on how such changes would affect families: “These adjustments will impact not just budget figures but real people.” She expressed gratitude for the platform to advocate for healthcare as a human right.

Recently, Rooni addressed City Hall on behalf of Senator Cory Booker, inviting like-minded individuals to join in promoting human dignity and rights for a brighter future.

Earlier this year, she expressed her concerns in a letter, criticizing lawmakers who advocate for “cutting costs” through Medicaid reductions, which she argued targets the most vulnerable populations, including families like her own. “It’s not only immoral but also a direct assault on essential medical care for children and families,” she asserted.

The National Republican Campaign Committee (NRCC) responded to the Democrats’ narrative, labeling it as deceptive. Spokeswoman Maureen O’Toole stated, “The Democrats are spreading lies. This ad exemplifies that,” and emphasized Keene’s commitment to protecting Medicaid.

Republicans contend that Keene’s vote is aimed at safeguarding Medicaid rather than cutting it. Their bill focuses on eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse from the program and introducing accountability measures for certain recipients while exempting vulnerable groups.

Public sentiment appears to lean toward the idea that healthier adults receiving Medicaid should contribute to their communities in return for taxpayer-funded healthcare.