[Trenton] — New Jersey State Democratic Chairman John Currie issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Atlantic City Mayor and State Senator Jim Whelan:

“Today New Jersey lost a true leader and tremendous public servant. Jim Whelan spent his life dedicated to his family, his students and the citizens of both Atlantic County and New Jersey.”

“Senator Whelan’s quiet, yet forceful leadership should be commended. He represented Atlantic County during a very difficult time, and did so with both honor and dignity. My thoughts and prayers are with the Whelan family, and all of the communities he served.”