Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin today announced the appointment of Sara Ben-David as the Acting Executive Director of the New Jersey Racing Commission (NJRC), which ensures the safety and integrity of the horse racing industry in New Jersey.
Ben-David, a seasoned state government attorney with extensive experience in casino gaming and sports wagering as well as horse racing, was confirmed by unanimous vote during Wednesday’s NJRC meeting. The NJRC is a nine-member bipartisan body appointed by the Governor.
“New Jersey’s horse racing culture is a unique one that spans back decades. To ensure that the integrity of the industry remains intact, it’s important that we have an honest, devoted, and experienced leader at the helm, which is why I am thrilled to welcome Acting Executive Director Sara Ben-David,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “I am grateful to Interim Director Thomas Salerno for his time and dedication to the Commission over the past few months following the retirement of former Executive Director Judy Nason. The future of our Racing Commission is bright, and I look forward to working with Acting Executive Director Ben-David as we seek to build on its legacy.”
“I am so pleased to announce Sara Ben-David as the Acting Executive Director of the New Jersey Racing Commission. Horse racing has deep roots in New Jersey, and it’s our job to ensure that the sport is administered with integrity, fairness, and safety. I can think of no better person to lead the New Jersey Racing Commission than Sara,” said Attorney General Platkin. “During the past two years I have relied on Sara’s judgment and expertise on horse racing issues and complex questions involving sports wagering and internet gaming. And I have no doubt that Sara will approach her work at the Commission with that same dedication and commitment to ensuring the soundness of this crucial industry in New Jersey.”
“I also want to thank Interim Director of the Racing Commission Thomas Salerno for his service and leadership,” added Attorney General Platkin. “Tom’s work allowed the Commission to continue without interruption during this transition period, building on the integrity and professionalism of Judy Nason, who was an exceptional Executive Director of the Racing Commission for six years before her retirement.”
“We’re pleased to welcome Sara to the NJRC, and we all look forward to working with her,” said Commissioner Francis X. Keegan, Jr. “She has a big role to fill, and we know her experience and enthusiasm will be an absolute benefit to everyone in the racing world. The NJRC is thankful for the continued support of Governor Murphy and Attorney General Platkin.”
“New Jersey has a long and rich horse racing history, and I look forward to continuing the progress we have made to continually refine and improve the sport for the health and safety for all participants,” said Ben-David. “I want to thank Governor Murphy and Attorney General Platkin for their support and confidence, and for entrusting me with the responsibility to oversee the state’s horse racing industry. I’m eager to get to work with new colleagues at the NJRC and its many stakeholders who are passionate about this incredible sport.”
Ben-David has served as Counsel to Attorney General Platkin since 2022. From 2013 to 2022, she served as a Deputy Attorney General with the Division of Gaming Enforcement, where she was assigned to the Casino and Employee Licensing Bureaus. In that role, Ben-David handled complex casino licensing hearings before the Casino Control Commission, oversaw the development of the “Jackpot Intercept” for the Child Support Program, and prepared amended regulations enhancing equal employment opportunity protections within the New Jersey casino gaming industry.
She received her B.A., M.A., and J.D. all from Seton Hall University.
The NJRC is staffed by a team of career public servants, including investigators to oversee racing, training, and stabling; licensing staff to handle licensing and fingerprinting; financial staff to oversee and monitor pari-mutuel wagering; veterinarians to examine the horses before each race; and the officials who oversee standardbred and thoroughbred races, known as “judges” and “stewards.”
Interim Director Thomas Salerno, who assumed that role after the retirement of Judy Nason in May 2024, remains in his previous position of Assistant Director. Ben-David will begin her work as Acting Executive Director on August 12, 2024.
Sara Ben-David has been appointed as the Acting Executive Director of the New Jersey Racing Commission by Governor Phil Murphy’s Chief Counsel, Matt Platkin. Ben-David brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her new role, having previously served as the Commission’s Deputy Executive Director.
In her previous role, Ben-David played a key role in overseeing the regulation of horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering in the state of New Jersey. She has a deep understanding of the industry and is well-respected by her colleagues and peers.
As Acting Executive Director, Ben-David will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Racing Commission, ensuring that all regulations are being followed and that the industry is operating in a fair and transparent manner. She will also work closely with stakeholders in the racing industry to address any concerns or issues that may arise.
Ben-David’s appointment comes at a critical time for the racing industry in New Jersey, as the state looks to revitalize and grow its horse racing industry. With her experience and leadership skills, Ben-David is well-equipped to lead the Racing Commission through this important period of growth and change.
Governor Murphy expressed his confidence in Ben-David’s abilities, stating that she is “uniquely qualified to lead the Racing Commission during this critical time.” He also praised her dedication and commitment to ensuring the integrity of the racing industry in New Jersey.
Overall, Sara Ben-David’s appointment as Acting Executive Director of the New Jersey Racing Commission is a positive development for the industry. With her experience, knowledge, and leadership skills, she is well-positioned to lead the Commission through this important period of growth and change.
