Assemblywoman Elizabeth Muoio was nominated Wednesday as the state’s new treasurer in Gov.-elect Phil Murphy’s new administration.
This is the second appointment for his cabinet, and would make Muoio (D-Trenton) the second woman treasurer in the state’s history, if confirmed.
Murphy said Muoio, with her expertise on economic development and on the budget committee, will help the state achieve a balanced budget.
“That’s not something we’ve seen in Trenton for a while, through administrations of both parties,” he said.
Murphy joked that his lieutenant governor-elect, Sheila Oliver, had said she would be upset if one of her “sisters” from the Legislature weren’t brought into the administration.
Michellene Davis, president of the Executive Women of New Jersey organization, said she was pleased with the nominee being a woman.
“I understand and appreciate the budgetary constraints of the state, and know she has quite a job ahead of her, but I know she is equipped and able to tackle the job ahead of her,” she said.
Christine Stearns, of the law firm Gibbons P.C., said she has known Muoio for some time, and believes she is a great pick for the job.
“Assemblywoman Muoio is a great choice for treasurer. She brings extensive experience in government to a key role in the administration. Gov.-elect Murphy has selected someone smart, savvy and well-regarded who can hit the ground running,” she said.
Assemblyman Ralph Caputo (D-Belleville) also weighed in.
“This is a great call by Gov.-elect Murphy,” he said. “It’s been a joy to watch Liz’s success in the Assembly. Assemblywoman Muoio hit the ground running in 2015 and immediately became a leading voice in our caucus and a sponsor of key legislation. Her leadership on protecting children from lead poisoning, for instance, was second to none. She is the right choice at the right time. The Assembly’s loss will be the people of New Jersey’s gain.”
Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-Secaucus) also lauded Murphy’s choice.
“This is another fine decision on the part of our governor-elect,” he said. “Assemblywoman Muoio has been an outstanding addition to our caucus, demonstrating both a superior intellect and a commitment to smart, progressive policies. While she will be sorely missed in the Legislature, she will be a tremendous asset to the new administration.
“She has displayed a deft understanding of complex fiscal matters while serving on the Assembly Budget Committee for the past several years. This experience, coupled with her extensive economic background, will serve her well in this new capacity. Most importantly, the governor-elect has proven, once again, with this selection that he is committed to protecting the hardworking taxpayers of this state. ”
“The Women’s Political Caucus of New Jersey commends Gov.-elect Murphy for the nomination of Assemblywoman Elizabeth Maher Muoio to be the next state treasurer,” said Christine Buteas, WPCNJ President. “Assemblywoman Muoio, previously endorsed by WPCNJ, will bring a wealth of expertise to managing the state’s fiscal matters. The assemblywoman is a proven leader who has tremendous knowledge of the state budget and has tirelessly advocated for women and families across the state. We congratulate Gov.-elect Murphy on this momentous nomination. “
Muoio thanked Murphy on behalf of all women in the state for choosing her.
