Two new cabinet nominees were announced Wednesday by Gov.-elect Phil Murphy.
Carole Johnson, a former policy expert with President Barack Obama’s administration, was nominated as commissioner of the Department of Human Services.
Christine Norbut Beyer, formerly a part of the Division of Children and Families, would be returning to serve as commissioner, if approved by the Senate.
“These are two of the most consequential positions in state government, with the lives and dignity of countless New Jerseyans in the balance. I am asking both Carole and Christine to be the voices for those New Jerseyans who have no one else to speak on their behalf,” Murphy said. “We need strong leadership that understands that even one person falling through a hole in the safety net is one too many and that will strive day-in and day-out to ensure that everyone who looks to us for protection, or health care or for a chance to live a fuller life is treated not as a number, but as a person with tremendous potential.”
Both women continue Murphy’s commitment of building a diverse team.
The Department of Human Services is the state’s largest agency and assists low-income families, parents and children and oversees the Medicaid program.
“Real families face these challenges each day, and our challenge is to help them with a hand up,” said Johnson. “I share Gov.-elect Murphy’s strong commitment to a government that works tirelessly for the people it serves, particularly children, families, seniors, individuals with disabilities and the economically disadvantaged. And, should I be confirmed, I will work to help realize the vision of a stronger and fairer New Jersey that recognizes that meeting the needs of each of our citizens is vital to our shared future.”
The Department of Children and Families oversees child behavioral health, foster care and the welfare system, and also includes the state’s Division on Women.
Norbut Meyer previously served as assistant commissioner and director of the Division of Youth and Family Services.
“Strong families and supportive communities are the key to keeping children safe and stable. I look forward to working toward these goals as commissioner,” said Norbut Beyer. “My heart calls me to this work and continues to push me forward, striving for excellence for children and families. I thank Gov.-elect Murphy for this honor and look forward to working with him on his vision of a stronger New Jersey.”
