New Jersey Black Legislative Caucus Join in the Call for the Resignation of Governor Ralph Northam

“The members of the New Jersey Black Legislative Caucus join in the call for the resignation of Governor Ralph Northam and agree that he cannot effectively serve as the governor of Virginia.

“We stand with our fellow elected leaders of Virginia in denouncing the hurtful action and remarks of Governor Northam.  There are no justifications to rationalize this lapse in judgement of an elected leader and the public trust has been broken.

“Senator Ron Rice, Chairman of the NJ LBC and was born in Virginia, watched closely as the events unfolded over the weekend.  In fact, Senator Rice’s family continues to have strong bonds with former Governor L. Douglas Wilder, the first black governor in the United States.

“Senator Rice recalls the perils of a racist south.  The deep rooted history of bigotry continues to plague our country and the hurts of the past will never be erased.  However, as elected officials we are called to embrace and represent all individuals and not ridicule anyone for the color of their skin nor marginalize the horrors of the past.

“The cascade of events that provide no clarity of the misjudgment by Governor Northam early in his adult years to mock the history of racism and bigotry in our country, forces us as black elected officials to stand in solidarity with the LBC of Virginia.   There is zero tolerance to reflect upon the sins of the past with humor,” said Vice Chair Sumter.

“We understand that this may not be an easy decision as Governor Northam has served in office for many years, unfortunately it is the right decision to resign at this time to allow the healing to begin for all.”