Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) issued the following statement in response to the passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver:
Statement from Sen. Anthony Bucco on the passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. (CC0 Public Domain)
“On behalf of the Senate Republican caucus, we are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our dear friend, and colleague, Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. Her legacy will forever live on as a trailblazer for women in New Jersey, becoming not only the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the General Assembly, but also just the second in the Nation to lead a legislative body,” said Bucco. “When I first entered the General Assembly, I had the honor of working with Sheila as Speaker. She was a devout public servant and an incredibly kind person. I know many of our members will have fond memories of serving with Sheila and her professionalism. I will miss our friendship and work together. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”