UPPER TOWNSHIP - Crammed into a booth at Dino's Seaville Diner, InsiderNJ encountered state Senator Mike Testa (R-1), who offered his thoughts on the proposed FY2027 Budget, Congressional District 2 politics, Governor Mikie Sherrill's early tenure in office, and the loss last night of U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and the longer-term implications for the GOP.

On the budget specifically, by way of context, from NJ.com:

What happens to hundreds of programs on the chopping block is now up to a select few at the Statehouse: Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, D-Essex, and Sen. Paul Sarlo, D-Bergen, who each chair their respective budget committees, and Senate President Nick Scutari, D-Union and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-Middlesex.

Republican Budget Officer, state Senator Declan O'Scanlon (R-13) should also be present for those interactions, Testa said.

For (the FULL!) interview with Senator Testa, please see here: