Rep. Josh Gottheimer, who represents New Jersey’s 5th district in the U.S. Congress, posted a series of statements on social media addressing LGBTQ+ rights and recent developments regarding hostages held in Gaza.
On October 12, 2025, Gottheimer marked the anniversary of Matthew Shepard’s murder, writing: “27 years ago, Matthew Shepard was brutally murdered simply for being gay. His legacy is a call to action for the protection of those who are continually targeted for who they love. I’m committed to working with the @EqualityCaucus to combat anti-LGBTQ+ hate and violence.”
Later that day, he commented on efforts by the Broadway community in response to hostages taken on October 7 two years prior: “Nearly two years ago, members of the Broadway community came together to sing a message for the 251 hostages taken on 10/7: ‘Bring them home.’ Now, two years later, the remaining hostages will finally return to their families and loved ones.”
On October 13, Gottheimer issued another statement regarding the release of hostages from Gaza: “My statement on the release of hostages from Gaza “
Gottheimer has served as a U.S. Representative since 2017 after replacing Scott Garrett. He was born in Livingston, New Jersey in 1975 and currently resides in Wyckoff. He holds degrees from both the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University.
