State Sen. Steve Oroho, the Republican minority leader from Sparta who always made the interest of the business community one of his top priorites, announced Monday that he will not seek re-election this fall – reversing his previously stated intention.
Oroho has served in the Senate since 2008 – part of a political career that began in 2001, when he served on the Franklin Borough Council.
Oroho, in a release, said circumstances in his life led to the decision.
“I recently announced my intention to seek reelection to the New Jersey State Senate, but circumstances have changed, and I’ve made a personally difficult decision that I will not be a candidate for re-election,” he said. “However, I am comfortable that I am making the right decision for my family and me.”
Oroho, who will be 65 in July, is recovering from a recent undisclosed illness. He said the idea of committing to another four-year term was difficult – especially with and increased desire to spend time with his 10 grandchildren.
“As I’ve been reflecting on my life with the recent passing of the new year, our family celebrating the birth of our 10th grandchild, and time praying and contemplating while recovering from a recent illness, I’ve come to the conclusion that I will not to be a candidate for re-election this year,” he said.
“I have made my decision for a number of personal reasons that I will mainly keep private. It was a difficult decision, however, one particular thought that kept gnawing at me was the commitment of completing a four-year term. If I cannot readily commit to completing the whole term, it’s not fair to the voters and inappropriate for me to run.
“It’s time for me to be a more attentive Pop Pop.”
Oroho said he is grateful for his time in the Legislature and said he knows there are plenty of talented people available to fill his spot.
“I am very proud of my service in the State Legislature, and what I have worked to accomplish,” he said. “Although admittedly frustrated at being in the minority, I felt I was still able to work collaboratively to affect positive outcomes for my constituents and state residents alike. There are many issues I wish I could have pushed further along, but I’ll leave knowing I was persistent and always tried my best.
“I pledge that I will continue to work incessantly to try to achieve a Republican majority in the State Legislature. If we are ultimately successful, that will be an accomplishment for me to cherish. If we come up short, then it will naturally be time for someone else to take up the task.”
