NJEA endorses Phil Murphy

The New Jersey Education Association, the state’s largest public employee union and an influential player in state politics, is endorsing Gov. Phil Murphy for re-nomination in the Democratic primary.

“Gov. Murphy has demonstrated time and time again that he keeps his promises,” said NJEA President Marie Blistan. “It is so vital to the success of our students and our members that we have a governor who listens to education experts and works with us to develop solutions that work for all of us. He has shown that, regardless of job description, he respects the contributions of every school employee, and he has signed legislation to ensure fairer working conditions.”

The endorsement came tonight after the 125-member NJEA PAC Operating Committee voted “overwhelmingly” to back the governor for renomination.

“We are at a tipping point in our society and the question is, who will lead our state to a future that works for everyone?” said NJEA Vice President Sean M. Spiller. “Gov. Murphy shares our commitment to social justice. He knows there is much work to be done and he is eager to work with us and other partners to diversify our workforce and our curriculum. That’s the kind of leadership we need in order to make long-lasting change that benefits everyone.”

Murphy is unopposed in the Democratic primary.

Assemblyman Jamel Holley (D-Roselle) and former Assistant New Jersey Attorney General Shavar Jeffries have both said they are considering a bid for the Democratic nomination.

“There is no governor in the nation who has worked as closely and collaboratively with public employee unions than Gov. Murphy,” said NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Steve Beatty. “Gov. Murphy is committed to putting New Jersey on a strong financial footing and he has done that by addressing inequality and exploitation of working families. He shares our vision of a New Jersey that respects and supports the people who make this state run and make our public schools the very best in the nation..”