Assemblyman Jay Webber, a friend and reader of Save Jersey, tonight resigned from his post as Chairman of the NJGOP. Webber is leaving the position in order to focus on what he rightly considers to be a top priority this year, leading the Republican members of the redistricting commission to create a strong map for the new decade. It seems that Governor Christie has already thrown his support behind Mayor Sam Raia of Saddle River, NJ.
Webber oversaw the NJGOP during an incredible turnaround for the party. He managed to improve fundraising, organization, and the overall image of what it means to be a Republican in New Jersey. Some specific accomplishments during this relatively short period of time include:
- Won the first Republican gubernatorial victory in 12 years;
- Regained the 3rd Congressional District seat and won over 52% of the Congressional votes statewide in 2010;
- Gained a State Assembly seat;
- Gained a net of 22 countywide seats;
- Regained control of the Bergen County and Monmouth County Freeholder Boards;
- Implemented an historic Victory program in 2009 that made over 2.3 million volunteer phone calls, knocked on over 170,000 doors, and recruited more than 3500 volunteers;
- Raised over $4 million for candidates and party operations; and
- Registered more than 42,000 new Republicans.
In his announcement, Assemblyman Webber said:
“It is with an overriding sense of satisfaction that I make this bittersweet announcement,” said Chairman Webber. “Although I enjoy and appreciate the opportunity to lead our Party during such an important time in our State’s history, the reality is that only about five months remain in the only term I planned on serving. Much of that time in early 2011 will be dedicated to the once-a-decade reapportionment process, a watershed moment in the State’s governmental and political life requiring and deserving my full attention. Shortly after the completion of that process, I will be focused on my service on the Assembly Budget Committee, as we close another budget deficit for Fiscal Year 2012. My stepping aside now will allow the next NJGOP Chairman to get started right away and give our Party’s vital operations the attention they deserve heading into the 2011 elections.
“I am grateful to Governor Christie and the members of the Republican State Committee for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading the Republican Party,” said Chairman Webber. “I also thank our elected officials and candidates, the dedicated members of the NJGOP staff, and the thousands of supporters who through their tireless efforts and tremendous generosity have been the true engine of our Party’s revival. I have been, and remain, humbled to have earned your support for our common cause.
“Together we have made a strong and successful Republican Party by rebuilding from the grassroots up, restoring the integrity of the Republican brand, and electing winning candidates committed to governing the right way when entrusted with the mantle of leadership. I am proud of all that we have accomplished, and have every confidence that together we will continue to serve our State, and our Party, well in the future,”
We at Save Jersey wish the soon-to-be Chairman Raia the best of luck in continuing the great work that started with Assemblyman Webber.
Right away I am going to do my breakfast, after having my breakfast coming over again to read additional news.