Bill Baroni

I wanted to drop you a quick note and share with you some exciting news. A few minutes ago, our Governor, and my friend, Chris Christie, announced that he was naming me as the new Deputy Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. It is a daunting challenge, and I told the Governor that I was ready for that new challenge.

The Port Authority oversees some of the most critical infrastructure points in the nation. It oversees the three major airports, Newark Liberty, JFK, and LaGuardia. It runs the Hudson River crossings including the GW Bridge, Lincoln, and Holland Tunnels. It runs the critical PATH rail link. And, as we approach the 10th anniversary of the attacks of 9/11, the Port Authority is overseeing the rebuilding of the World Trade Center.

The position that the Governor has asked me to fill will be New Jersey's lead staff member in this bi-state agency. I will work every day to oversee an annual budget of more than $6 Billion and directly employs more than 7,000 people. It is a chance to help lead an agency that is helping to strengthen our regional economy, create jobs, make transportation and commuting faster and easier.

But, in accepting this new challenge means I have to leave my seat in the State Senate. It was a very difficult decision. I have truly loved my chance to serve my neighbors in the Legislature. I have worked day and night for my constituents to make New Jersey more affordable, with stronger ethics laws and better schools. My office has worked for thousands of people who face real problems with government. I am proud of my time in the Legislature.

When Governor Christie asked me to take this new position, I remembered why I ran for office. Throughout my years in the Legislature I have knocked on more than 27,000 doors. And house after house I heard the same thing over and over, "Just keep working hard for us." And with this opportunity, I will continue to serve my neighbors -- and all the people of New Jersey. When I knocked on people's doors I told people I would work every day to make our state better; that I wasn't in government to BE someone, but I wanted to DO something. And I believe that today.

At a time when our state and region are facing historic economic challenges, the Port Authority, helps create jobs that employ tens of thousands of people. When the Governor asked me to take this position that affects the lives of nearly every New Jerseyan, there is only one response, and that is yes. I am so excited to take this new challenge to grow our economy, and work with Governor Christie to create jobs, and fight for New Jersey every day.

I will continue to work every day for the people of New Jersey, but in a different challenge. I will still be available any time to help with anything I can do for you. Drop me an email at bill@billbaroni.com.

Thank you for all of your support in the past, and I'm
looking forward to seeing you soon!