I got to know Chuck Haytaian exactly 30 years ago this fall when he ran against Frank Lautenberg for Senate.
It was – as we noted – three decades ago, but back then Democrats were beginning their solid lock on the state’s U.S. Senate seat.
That was a good year for Republicans nationally. It was when the GOP took control of both the House and Senate propelled by the “Contract With America.”
But Haytaian really didn’t have a chance against Lautenberg.
But he was feisty.
I recall him doing what Bill Bradley had done previously – tour all 21 counties in a single day as a campaign stunt.
I can still see Haytaian milking a cow in the darkness of an early morning barn in Sussex County.
In this vein, Haytaian asked Lautenberg at a subsequent debate to name all 21 counties.
Lautenberg ignored the question. Maybe he thought it was silly. Maybe he couldn’t name them all.
When it was over, one of Haytaian’s post-election quotes was along the lines of, “I’m still the Speaker of the New Jersey Assembly and that ain’t bad.”
That was a job in which he took pride.
Years later, Haytaian and I were both guests on a local radio show and I noticed his car in the parking lot.
The personalized license plate was an abbreviation for “Former Speaker.”
Statement from Governor Murphy on the Passing of Former Assembly Speaker Chuck Haytaian
“Tammy and I were saddened to hear of the passing of former Assembly Speaker Garabed ‘Chuck’ Haytaian.
“Through his storied career of service to New Jersey, including time as Speaker of the General Assembly, a U.S. Senate candidate, and Chairman of the New Jersey Republican State Committee, Chuck grew from the Bronx-born child of Armenian Genocide survivors to a household name across the Garden State.
“Our heartfelt prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
BUCCO STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER ASSEMBLY SPEAKER CHUCK HAYTAIAN
| Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) issued the following statement on the passing of former Assembly Speaker Chuck Haytaian:
“Speaker Haytaian was a dedicated public servant and ardent fighter for those who suffered during the Armenian Genocide,” said Sen. Bucco. “Chuck was a good man and close family friend who left a lasting mark on Garden State politics for the better. It’s a sad day for New Jersey—my deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.” |
DiMaio Mourns the Loss of Mentor and Former Assembly Speaker Garabed “Chuck” Haytaian
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Chuck Haytaian, a former New Jersey State Senator, passed away on October 13, 2021, at the age of 81. Haytaian was a prominent figure in New Jersey politics, serving as a Republican member of the State Senate from 1982 to 1998. During his time in office, he was known for his conservative views and his dedication to serving the people of New Jersey.
Haytaian was born in Paterson, New Jersey, in 1940. He attended Seton Hall University and went on to have a successful career in business before entering politics. He was elected to the State Senate in 1981 and quickly rose through the ranks to become the Senate Minority Leader in 1992.
During his time in office, Haytaian was a strong advocate for fiscal responsibility and limited government. He was known for his tough stance on crime and his support for law enforcement. He also worked to improve education and healthcare in New Jersey, advocating for policies that would benefit the state’s residents.
Haytaian’s passing has been met with sadness and condolences from across the political spectrum. Governor Phil Murphy praised him as a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for the people of New Jersey. Former Governor Chris Christie also paid tribute to Haytaian, calling him a “true statesman” who always put the interests of his constituents first.
In addition to his political career, Haytaian was also known for his philanthropy and community involvement. He was a longtime supporter of various charitable organizations and was involved in numerous community service projects throughout his life.
Chuck Haytaian will be remembered as a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the people of New Jersey. His passing is a loss for the state, but his legacy will live on through his many contributions to the community.