Senate President Nicholas P. Scutari on Thursday announced new leadership and committee appointments in wake of the departure of former state Senator Nellie Pou, who resigned after being elected to the U.S. Congress.
Scutari announced the selection of Senator Troy Singleton (D-7), Senator Vin Gopal (D-11) and Senator Jim Beach (D-6) to new leadership positions for the Senate Democratic Majority. Senator Singleton will become the Senate Majority Caucus Chair, replacing Pou who had served in that position since 2022. Senator Gopal will assume the position of Senate Majority Whip, and Senator Beach will serve as Deputy Majority Whip.
“Senators Singleton, Gopal and Beach are accomplished legislators who have gained the trust and respect of the entire Democratic Caucus,” said Senator Scutari (D-22). “They are proven leaders who will serve with distinction as members of a diverse and talented leadership team. Their legislative skills will help guide the Senate as we work to address the issues of importance to the people of New Jersey during challenging times.”
The Senate committee changes will enhance the Senate’s ability to address critical issues and foster legislative progress, Scutari said.
“These changes are based on seniority and our commitment to leveraging the unique strengths of our members,” Scutari said. “Each of these leaders brings experience, dedication, and vision to their respective roles. I am confident that their leadership will drive meaningful progress on issues that matter most to our residents.”
Senator Gordon Johnson (D-37) is the new Chair of the Senate Labor Committee, where he will focus on advancing workers’ rights, job growth, and workplace protections.
“New Jersey’s workers are the cornerstone of our state’s thriving economy, and I am eager to get to work and advocate for their needs and rights as chair of the Senate Labor Committee,” Johnson said. “I look forward to advancing our shared values of protecting workers’ rights, ensuring healthy and safe work environments, and guaranteeing that all individuals have an equal opportunity to earn a fair living.”
Senator Joseph Lagana (D-38), who formerly chaired the Labor Committee, will assume leadership of the Senate Commerce Committee, where his focus will be on fostering economic development, promoting business innovation, and ensuring equitable commerce policies. The Commerce Committee was formerly chaired by Pou.
“I am honored to assume leadership of the New Jersey Commerce Committee,” said Lagana. “Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive economy that benefits every resident and share in the prosperity we are building here in New Jersey.”
Senator Raj Mukherji (D-32) will serve as chair of the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee formerly led by Senator Johnson. In his new role, Mukherji will lead efforts to support New Jersey’s service members and veterans, ensuring they receive the benefits, resources, and recognition they deserve.
Senator Troy Singleton (D-7) will serve as the vice chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, helping oversee discussions on the legal and judicial matters affecting the state.
“I am honored to serve as vice chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and am thankful for Senate President Scutari’s confidence in assigning me to this important role,” said Singleton, who was recently elevated to Senate Majority Caucus Chair and serves as Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee chairman.
“I look forward to working closely with Chairman Stack, as well as my other colleagues, as we address the challenges facing New Jersey’s Judiciary, our criminal justice system, and exercise advice and consent on the Governor’s nominations,” Singleton said. “Over the last seven years of my service on this committee, I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the issues and reviewing the nominees that have come before us, and I look forward to continuing that work as vice chair.”
Senator Renee Burgess (D-28) will be the Judiciary Committee’s newest member. The vacancy was created by the departure of Pou, who had been vice chair of the committee.
“It is a privilege to serve as a member of the Judiciary Committee, overseeing critical discussions on the legal and judicial matters that impact the lives of New Jersey residents,” said Burgess. “I am committed to ensuring that our laws uphold justice, protect rights, and reflect the values of our diverse communities.”
All other committee assignments will remain unchanged.
