Roberts announces he won't seek re-election and reaction

by: Jason Springer

Wed Sep 02, 2009 at 08:04:24 PM EDT

Joseph Roberts announces he will not seek re-election

"Joe Roberts has served the people of New Jersey, led the Assembly, and most important, served his constituents with dedication and distinction for more than 20 years. His tireless advocacy for providing tax relief to our citizens and helping New Jersey's most vulnerable, such as kids with autism and families needing affordable housing, is a legacy that will stand the test of time.

"We will all miss his strong leadership and steady hand, and I will miss his friendship.  I am very confident that our partnership with the Democratic delegation will continue to lead New Jersey through this national economic crisis and protect our children, families and communities in the process."

South Jersey politicians weigh in on Joseph Roberts decision

"Joe Roberts leadership and commitment will be sorely missed in Trenton.  He has been one of the most steadfast and dedicated public servants that Trenton has seen in nearly a quarter of a century.

"Joe has been a fierce advocate for his constituents, particularly those that are underserved.  His commitment to the causes he believes in, such as property tax relief, affordable housing and autism services have been admirable.

"While there were times when we had policy differences, they never became personal and Joe and I always got along. Joe was the consummate legislator and a true gentleman to work with whose sole goal was always to help the citizens of New Jersey.

"I have been very fortunate to be able to say that, like Congressman Albio Sires before him, Joe is a friend. The next Assembly Speaker will have large shoes to fill and I look forward to continuing the working relationship Joe and I forged as Speaker and Senate President with the next Speaker.

"On behalf of the State Senate, we wish him all the best as he pursues new avenues in life."

"Speaker Roberts and I have served together in the General Assembly for over 20 years and have a mutual respect for each other.  Although we have had our differences on public policy, we have always been able to work our way through them and maintain a cordial, working relationship.  I thank him for his dedicated service in the General Assembly and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."

"His legislative accomplishments are numerous but among them it must be recognized that he has been a tireless champion of the issues that have helped some of the most vulnerable New Jerseyans.

"Joe Roberts crafted laws that abolished the death penalty, established needle exchange programs, expanded affordable housing, created programs and services to assist families with a loved one with autism, promoted affordable health coverage and protected property relief for working New Jersey families.

"It has been my honor and privilege to work with Speaker Roberts these many years, especially the last four as part of our leadership team. I am grateful for the opportunity he has given me to play an integral role in setting the progressive agenda of our caucus.

"Joe Roberts is a true gentleman and leader whose work to improve the lives of New Jerseyans will resonate for years to come.

"I will miss his leadership and am saddened to see him leave. He was, when all is said and done, a great example of what a legislator and public servant should strive to become.

"But our immediate focus must be on ensuring continued Democratic success, and I am confident the Speaker's guidance will make that happen in the coming months."