In this episode of New Jersey Politics, Laura Jones tackles New Jersey’s growing affordability crisis, from soaring utility bills to the state’s near-bottom ranking in tax competitiveness. Tax policy expert Rosemary Becchi explains how high corporate taxes, a complex tax code, and limited fiscal transparency continue to drive families and businesses out of the state, while outlining what reforms the incoming Sherrill administration might realistically pursue. Laura also speaks with Justin Balik of Evergreen Action about a new report detailing the 17–20% spike in energy costs and the factors fueling it, including data center demand, stalled clean-energy projects, and changing federal policies. Balik highlights potential solutions that could deliver meaningful savings for New Jersey households.