New Jersey Senate Democratic Office

Today Senator Gordon M. Johnson led his first Senate Labor Committee as Chairman: "As we go forward we will ensure a balance between labor, employees and our consumers - and to ensure that businesses are incentivized the best we can while protecting our citizens."

Black History is American history. This month we’re proud to honor our African American Senators who make a difference every day as role models for their communities. Angela V. McKnight Benjie E. Wimberly Gordon M. Johnson Troy Singleton Britnee N. Timberlake, MPA

"It’s important to see diversity in all of these spaces,” says Sen. Britnee N. Timberlake, MPA on?#BlackHistoryMonth. “But it’s also important that when we - as Black peoples - have the opportunity to write legislation, that we do so with the meaning and the impact and influence of our ancestors.”

This #BlackHistoryMonth Senator Renee Burgess reflects on her time in the legislature: "There are people who went before me, so that I can sit here. And I think that’s when the reality sets in that I’m in the right place at the right time."

Our statement from Senate President Nicholas Scutari on the Governor's Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Proposal: “The Governor’s proposed budget recognizes the fiscal challenges we face. We are confronted with more uncertain economic conditions and the threat of reduced federal aid that must be factored into budget considerations. “We have to be responsible in crafting a budget that continues the progress we have made on school funding, property tax relief, debt reduction, pension payments and services that care for the most vulnerable. At the same time, we must remain disciplined in controlling spending and identifying savings across government. We will maintain our commitment to the priorities that improve the quality of life in New Jersey with strict controls on spending. “In the coming weeks, the Senate Budget Committee will conduct a thorough review of the Governor’s proposal with input from the public, businesses, advocacy groups, and others who are impacted by the spending plan. We will work to develop a budget plan that addresses the state’s needs in a responsible and effective way.”

This #BlackHistoryMonth Senator Benjie E. Wimberly honors his family's long legacy of fighting for equal rights in America - from labor leaders and organizers to the original March on Washington. "I walk these halls with great pride, and I'm walking them for my ancestors," Wimberly says.

"I don't look at the color of my skin," says Senator Angela V. McKnight, "I look as a leader - to make laws, to change people's lives.” This #BlackHistoryMonth Senator McKnight reflects on this richness of her ancestors and the work that still needs to be done.

"There is no American history without the African American contribution." This #BlackHistoryMonth Senator Troy Singleton urges all of us to recommit ourselves to the ideal that out of many, we are one. "So many of us bring so many different qualities and characteristics to the table," says Singleton. "But all of us together enrich this great melting pot that is our country."

We advanced legislation from Sen. Paul Moriarty aimed to crack down on organized fighting and other disruptive behavior at a public gathering. The two bills are part of a legislative package introduced in response to recent community events that have been plagued by fights and other such disturbances. In June of 2024, it was reported that an annual event in Gloucester Township was disrupted by unruly crowds and multiple fights, leading to a dozen arrests. “Community gatherings are meant to be celebratory events that draw people together, but recent disruptions by large groups have spoiled the spirit of such gatherings, and in some cases placed the general health and safety of all who attend at risk,” said Senator Moriarty. “These bills are meant to make such incidents less frequent and to give our public safety officers more training and resources to help bring these situations under control.”?

Meet Senator Benjie E. Wimberly - a lifelong educator, coach, and Paterson resident. Serving the 35th District, Senator Wimberly joins the New Jersey Senate after 13 years in the Assembly. "I think it's a win for the average guy," says Wimberly. "A product of public housing, a lower income family. You come back and teach and coach in you community. I think it shows folks who may not have hope that there is hope."