N.J. Senators, Gov. Christie respond to U.S. Supreme Court health care ruling

Some lawmakers in New Jersey are applauding the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision Thursday to uphold most aspects of the Affordable Care Act.

The decision by the Supreme Court to uphold the 2010 health care law was announced at 10 a.m. Thursday morning.

The U.S Supreme Court has provided its full ruling online.

The personal responsibility payment, which is also known as the individual mandate, was upheld as a legitimate exercise of Congress’ taxing power in a 5-4 vote. The key vote was cast by Chief Justice John Roberts.

Moments after the ruling, several N.J. lawmakers offered their reaction. Below, we’ve listed some of their responses.

We’ll continue to add the responses from other lawmakers and political groups as they come in.

You’ve heard what everyone else has had to say, what’s your reaction?Tell us in the comments below.

Gov. Chris Christie:

“I’ve been clear from the very beginning that I do not believe a one-size-fits-all health care program works for the entire country and that each governor should have the ability to make decisions about what works best for their state. Today’s Supreme Court decision is disappointing and I still believe this is the wrong approach for the people of New Jersey who should be able to make their own judgments about health care. Most importantly, the Supreme Court is confirming what we knew all along about this law – it is a tax on middle class Americans.”

U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D, N.J.):

“On this day, history was made in America. This is a victory for the people, and makes clear that help is on the way for 30 million Americans who need access to affordable health insurance. Middle class families are struggling to afford health insurance and Obamacare will throw them a lifeline. It is time for the Republicans to stop the politically inspired attacks and work with us to extend this law’s help to as many people as possible. With this ruling, Americans finally will have the peace of mind to know that their families will be taken care of when they get sick. President Obama has courageously stood up to false, political attacks, and his hard work was vindicated today.”

U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D,N.J.):

“Today’s decision is a victory for millions of middle class families across America who want the security that the health care law provides. It is a victory for seniors, women and young people.

“This is a victory for nearly 126,000 seniors in New Jersey who have already saved, on average, $756 for their prescription drugs, and for more than 985,000 seniors who had access to free, critical lifesaving services.