For Immediate Release
April 2nd, 2026
The New Jersey Libertarian Party Rejects Tax Gouging and Taxpayer Funded Athletics
This summer, MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford NJ will be hosting eight matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. NJ Democrats, including Gov. Mikie Sherrill, have proposed a plan to increase our state’s sales tax by approximately 3 percentage points to 9.625% (a 45.283% increase) in order to capitalize on the influx of soccer tourists attending the event. Additionally, taxes on lodging (2.5%), gambling (10% on World Cup wagers) and rideshare (upwards of 50 cents) are also being considered.
While these taxes will be primarily focused in the Meadowlands area, this proposal will have far reaching effects on the people of NJ who are already hurting from high taxes, inflation and fuel expenses. While it is true that this could be seen as a way of recouping the $307 million in taxpayer money initially allocated by the State to secure the event, upgrade the stadium, etc., this tax hike will only further encumber an already struggling population. For all of Gov. Sherril’s talk about affordability this proposal will do nothing but impoverish the citizens of NJ.
In addition to the overt funding of the event, there was also an additional $20 to $26 million in taxpayer funds given to the Board of Directors for the New York New Jersey Host Committee. Given that former first lady of NJ Tammy Murphy was appointed the Chair, we call into question the involvement of NJ Democrats; from former Governor Murphy to sitting officials.
We of the New Jersey Libertarian Party reject this proposal and any others that aim to further tax the people of NJ in any way. We believe that the State has no place in sports, competitive or otherwise. Taxpayers should not be bled to fund any sporting events, stadiums, etc. FIFA is a global organization with billions in available capital. If they want to hold an event, let them pay for it themselves and recoup the costs the way all businesses do, by enticing consumers to pay for their goods and services.
We call for the complete separation of sports and state. Not only do we reject the aforementioned $307 million that was already spent, but any other funds or taxes being considered for this event. We call on Gov. Sherrill to remove her support from this proposal and use her veto power, if necessary, to protect the people of NJ from this oppressive tax. We also call on Senate Budget Chair Paul Sarlo, the bill’s sponsor, to remove his support and put the needs of NJ taxpayers first. If NJ Democrats want to improve the finances of NJ they should try and propose a balanced budget.
In Liberty,
The New Jersey Libertarian Party
Bruno Pereira
Chair, New Jersey Libertarian Party