ACLU-NJ forms political advocacy department, taps John Butler to lead

The ACLU of New Jersey announced Thursday that it is bolstering its political operations with the launch of a new department focused on expanding its reach in organizing and public policy. 

ACLU-NJ’s new political advocacy department signals the organization’s increased aggressiveness in the voter persuasion lane, and they tapped John Butler, an aide to former Gov. Phil Murphy, to lead the new department. The organization said they are facing a “key moment in civil rights,” and that the new department allows the organization to strengthen its political influence.

“We are witnessing a fundamental shift in New Jersey politics, and the ACLU-NJ is ready for it. We are doing all we can to ensure that our state continues to forge a firewall for freedom for years to come,” ACLU-NJ Executive Director Amol Sinha said. “I’m proud to launch our Political Advocacy Department so we can set a bold policy and political agenda to deliver even more civil rights victories.”

Butler most recently worked as director of criminal justice policy for Murphy, and also oversaw the administration’s harm-reduction efforts, veterans affairs, cannabis policy, election procedures, and homeland security, according to ACLU-NJ. He also held a key role in the Murphy administration’s clemency initiative, which pardoned or commuted the sentences of 455 people toward the end of Murphy’s tenure.

“Having dedicated my career to advocating for inclusive politics, a robust democracy, and forward-thinking criminal legal system reform that benefits real people, joining the ACLU-NJ – an organization at the vanguard of civil rights advocacy – is a defining moment in my life,” Butler said. “I’m hopeful that in the coming years, we will be able to achieve even more meaningful change to protect and advance fundamental freedoms for all New Jerseyans.”

State progressive groups like the New Jersey Working Families Party have sought to expand their electoral reach after the abolition of the county line ballot system struck a blow to party machines.

The appointment of Butler shows ACLU-NJ is working to do the same, especially as the group works to stifle President Donald Trump’s influence in the state. ACLU-NJ said the political advocacy department will be tasked with leading the group’s political and legislative agenda and mobilizing its 30,000-person membership base.

“John Butler is the right leader at the right time to execute that vision,” Sinha said. “In this unprecedented moment, as the Trump administration continues to brutalize our communities, under John’s steady leadership, we will build a better future for all who call our state home.”