New Jersey Fire Fighters Endorse Jon Corzine for Governor

September 30, 2009 – The Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFFNJ) has endorsed Governor Jon Corzine for re-election. PFFNJ President Dominick Marino announced the endorsement September 27 during a joint event with the New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police.

“In tough times, it takes tough leadership to run a state, and Governor Jon Corzine has proven that he is up to the task when it comes to guiding New Jersey through today’s rough waters,” said Marino. “Over the past four years -- but particularly during these last 18 months -- Governor Corzine has faced uncertain economic circumstances, and he has proven that he has the mettle to face these challenges head on and manage the state effectively. He has nevertheless done a remarkable job in steering New Jersey during this period.”

Thanks to Governor Corzine’s leadership, $3.5 billion has been returned to the state pension fund for retired police officers and fire fighters. In fact, he has contributed more money to the public employees’ pension system over the past three years than his predecessors did over the previous decade.

Even when making painful budget cuts has been a necessity, Governor Corzine has prevented public safety layoffs in the state, allowing New Jersey fire departments to continue to keep their communities safe.

“As fire fighters, we will never forget the horrific events that happened eight years ago in New York City on September 11,” said Marino. “At that time, many politicians said that they would never forget. Today, I can stand here and proudly say that Jon Corzine has truly not forgotten. Governor Corzine has proven he can get the job done and keep New Jersey on the right path forward.”

PFFNJ represents more than 3,300 professional fire fighters and emergency medical personnel in the state of New Jersey who are working to help make sure Governor Corzine wins re-election on November 3.