Speaker Craig Coughlin and Assemblywoman Sadaf Jaffer issued the following statement following the Assemblywoman’s decision not to run for re-election in the 16th Legislative District this year:

“After careful consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election to the New Jersey General Assembly. At this time, I would like to focus on my work in higher education and spend more time with my family, especially my young daughter,” said Assemblywoman Sadaf Jaffer (NJ-16).

“It has been an honor to represent the people of the 16th District and the State of New Jersey, and I thank everyone who has supported me on this journey. I have endeavored to bring my perspective as a researcher, parent, and former mayor to the legislation I have sponsored, the votes I have taken, and the budget priorities for which I have advocated. I will continue to support legislation focused on women’s and reproductive healthcare, mental health, diversity, and good governance. I’d like to thank Speaker Coughlin for his leadership of the Assembly, and Senator Zwicker and Assemblyman Freiman for their partnership in serving the 16th District. I know they will continue on to do incredible things for New Jersey.

“I am proud to have been among a cohort to shatter glass ceilings as one of the first three Asian American women and first two Muslim Americans to serve in the New Jersey Legislature. I look forward to continued progress in the representation of women and minorities at all levels of government in the years to come.”

“Over the years we’ve served together, Assemblywoman Jaffer has been a trailblazer, a teammate, and most importantly, a friend,” said Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (NJ-19). “She has served as inspiration to countless South Asian and Muslim New Jerseyans looking to enter into public service. Her work on issues related to mental health and women’s health have improved the lives of countless New Jerseyans, and I know that she’ll continue to advocate far beyond her time in the Assembly comes to a close. I wish her and her family the best as they move into the next chapter of their lives, and look forward to a continued friendship.”