Rothman: Arline Miller was like the ‘mothership’

Arline Miller, a leading force in Bergen County Democratic politics for many years, passed away on Saturday.  She was a former aide to Rep. Steve Rothman, a delegate to several Democratic National Conventions, and was inducted into the Bergen County Democratic Hall of Fame five years ago.

Rothman, who represented Bergen County in Congress for sixteen years, says that Miller played an important role in his life and political career.

“Arline was already a fixture in Bergen County politics when I got out of law school in 1977.  She soon ‘adopted’ me. She was, and always remained, a senior, well-respected person in Bergen County politics,” Rothman told the New Jersey Globe.  “I asked her to be my Office Manager when I first got sworn into the 9th District seat in 1997.  She was with me all eight terms.  We remained close.  At the time of her death, we had been friends for more than 35 years.”

Miller also played a valuable role on Rothman’s staff and with Democrats across Bergen County.

“Arline was like the Mothership. We were all connected to her by some invisible umbilical cord.  She was extremely bright, experienced, warm, fun, charming, and loving.  She was also very honest and direct,” Rothman said.  “Our deepest condolences to her family and all who loved her.  We will miss her always.”

Editor’s Note: This story was updated with comment from former Rep. Steve Rothman.