Statements on the Death of Sharpe James

SENATE MAJORITY LEADER TERESA RUIZ

 “Today, Newark mourns for one of our most iconic and influential leaders, the longest-serving Mayor of our city, Sharpe James. Mayor James embodied Newark’s grit and determination and fiercely advocated for the people he served, both as Newark’s leader and as State Senator. He championed Newark’s unique and vibrant culture and was a key force in the city’s revitalization, bringing affordable housing opportunities and new development to our neighborhoods. He was the driving force behind the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the expansion of the Newark Museum, and shepherded the creation of the Prudential Center. Mayor James is as much of a monument to this city as the institutions he brought us, and his legacy and impact will be felt for generations. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him.”

DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL COMMITTEEMAN MO BUTLER

“Sharpe James was a giant among giants. His impact on Newark, Essex County and New Jersey is immeasurable. Simply stated, Newark is a better place as a result of Sharpe’s love and commitment to this great city. Rest in Peace, Honorable Sharpe James.”

NEWARK SOUTH WARD COUNCILMAN PATRICK COUNCIL

“The South Ward mourns the loss of the City of Newark champion, Mayor Sharpe James. Mayor James was a fighter and champion for all of Newark. His energetic and optimistic focus on the development and growth of this city led the charge of revitalization and hope for a city that was coming through challenges. Mayor James relentless effort to lift up this city should never be forgotten. As the former South Ward Councilman, Councilman at Large, Mayor, and State Senator, his zeal and vision for seeing a robust and fruitful city played a major role in his fight up and down the state of New Jersey to ensure that Newark was never left out of the discussion. It was with that fire and tenacity that made this city a major player in the development of leadership, business, and commerce.  Mayor James leadership will continue to be seen and felt in every residence, family, recreational facility, and through the halls of the senate, council chambers, and the work that comes out of the city administration. The South Ward stands with the “James family ” during this time of transition and loss. The South Ward and the City of Newark is a better place because of Mayor Sharpe James.”

ESSEX COUNTY COMMISSIONER PAT SEBOLD

“Sharpe James, the fantastic mayor of Newark for twenty years, has died. Mayor James was dedicated to what he believed and served Newark passionately. We were good friends for so many years. Pay tribute to Mayor Sharpe James.”

GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY

“Tammy and I are saddened by the passing of former Newark Mayor and State Senator Sharpe James.

“Sharpe was a fixture of New Jersey politics for nearly four decades. During his long tenure as mayor of Newark, he fought to revitalize the city’s economy and played a key role in making vital cultural institutions—like the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Prudential Arena—a reality. And today, thanks in part to Sharpe’s many years of fierce advocacy, Newark continues to enjoy a historic economic renaissance. Whenever the two of us spoke, his deep affection for the city of Newark was always clear.

“We are sending our prayers and heartfelt condolences to every member of the James family.”

FORMER SENATE PRESIDENT STEVE SWEENEY

“From Newark to the State Senate, Sharpe James’ decades of public service are remembered for helping make the Garden State a better place. Newark would not be where it is today without his work to revitalize the city and his championing of the arts. I’ll be keeping the James family in my thoughts and in my prayers today.”

ASSEMBLY BUDGET COMMITTEE CHAIR ELIANA PINTOR MARIN

“I join the City of Newark in honoring the life and legacy of former Mayor Sharpe James. He was a towering figure in our history—our longest-serving mayor—who played a key role through Newark’s transformative years, expanding homeownership opportunities and investing in recreation centers that served generations of our youth. My heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and all who knew and served alongside him.”

ESSEX COUNTY CLERK CHRISTOPHER DURKIN

“Sharpe James had an enormous impact on the growth of Newark as a councilman, five-term Mayor, and State Senator. He was a great force for good on behalf of the people of Newark and the development and infrastructure of New Jersey’s largest city. Through his intelligence and courage, he expanded home ownership and built gateways to arts and culture.  I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the wonderful James family on the passing of a great man.”

ASSEMBLYWOMAN CLEOPATRA TUCKER

“Today, the city of Newark suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Mayor Sharpe James. Mayor James was the longest-serving mayor of our city, and he ushered in many positive changes – including helping to revitalize our city with new housing and development, and incentives in arts and culture that make us proud to call Newark home.  

“Mayor James will be solely missed, but his impact and legacy will live on. I send my deepest condolences to his family and friends, and I mourn him with a heavy heart.”