Virginia “ginny” haines announces retirement from ocean county politics at 78

TOMS RIVER, NJ – February 27, 2025 – Ocean County Commissioner Virginia “Ginny” Haines, a prominent figure in New Jersey politics for over four decades, has announced she will not seek re-election in 2025, marking the end of a distinguished career in public service.

Haines, 78, shared her decision with the Ocean County Republican Organization earlier this month, citing a desire to step aside and make room for a new generation of leaders after nearly ten years on the county’s Board of Commissioners.

She was forced out of politics by Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore. The two have been feuding for years.

Haines’ political journey began in 1980 when she worked as a secretary for then-Freeholder John C. Bartlett Jr. From there, her career took her through various roles, including serving as Clerk of the New Jersey General Assembly, a state Assemblywoman for the 10th Legislative District, and Executive Director of the New Jersey Lottery under Governor Christine Todd Whitman. She joined the Ocean County Board of Commissioners (formerly Freeholders) in 2016, filling a vacancy, and went on to win full terms in 2016, 2019, and 2022.

“I’ve had the honor of serving the people of Ocean County in many capacities, and I’ve enjoyed every minute,” Haines said in an interview reflecting on her tenure. “Initially, I was going to run again, but after talking with family and friends, I decided it’s time to step back. I’ll have served ten years on the board by the end of this term, and I’m ready to let others take the reins.”

Born in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, on June 6, 1946, Haines grew up in Lakewood’s Ocean County Park, where her father worked for the county parks system. A graduate of Lakewood High School, she has deep roots in the community and has long been a fixture in Ocean County’s Republican circles. Her extensive resume also includes serving as the Republican National Committeewoman for New Jersey since 2004 and co-chairing the Republican National Committee’s Northeast Region.

Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore praised Haines for her decades of dedication.

Haines served in many roles as a government worker—Lottery Director, Toms River Township Committeewoman, Assemblywoman, and Commissioner.

Haines’ departure comes at a time of transition for Ocean County’s leadership. Commissioner Jack Kelly, the board’s longest-serving member, has been recommended by the county GOP to replace retiring County Clerk Scott Colabella, pending approval from Governor Phil Murphy. This leaves two open commissioner seats, including Haines’, for the upcoming election cycle. Gilmore confirmed that three candidates—Shawn Denning Jr., and two others yet to be publicly named—have screened for the positions.

As Haines prepares to conclude her term at the end of 2025, her legacy as a trailblazer and steadfast public servant remains firmly intact. The county now looks ahead to a new chapter, with emerging leaders poised to carry forward her commitment to the community she has called home her entire life.

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