Coniglio Drops Out

by: Juan Melli

Wed Sep 12, 2007 at 06:01:40 PM EDT

"I have given a lot of thought to my upcoming re-election campaign, and determined that it is in the best interests of Democratic Party, and, more importantly, my family, for me to step aside and not seek re-election to the State Senate.  I am proud of my record of public service and know in my heart that I served my constituency in an honest and hard working manner.

"When making this difficult decision, I spoke with many friends and colleagues, including Senator Codey, Speaker Roberts, Chairman Ferriero, and most importantly my wife, Valerie, and my entire family.

"We decided that we could not in good conscience allow certain false perceptions to tarnish the Senate or our elected officials.  This does not mean that I believe I any of the accusations attributed to me have merit.  On the contrary, my decision to retire will allow me the time to fight the false accusations that my consulting work at Hackensack University Medical Center had any connection to two state grants the hospital received.

Bergen County Democratic Chair Joe Ferriero praised the decision:

"I have to commend him, because he has put the Democratic Party first, above his own personal interests, by withdrawing from this race."