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Governor Phil Murphy Revamps New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission with Notable Appointees
In tandem with the signing of a new Executive Order aligning with the Elections Transparency Act, the Governor appoints four new commissioners, marking the first full commission since 2017.
Governor Phil Murphy today declared the appointment of Tom Prol, Ryan Peters, Norma Evans, and Jon-Henry Barr as Commissioners to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC), a critical regulatory body that supervises campaign financing and lobbying activities in the state. The commission, currently celebrating its half-century mark, will be chaired by Prol, a noted advocate and the first openly gay President of the New Jersey State Bar Association.
"The ELEC plays an indispensable role in maintaining the integrity of our elections and the fairness of our democratic process," stated Governor Murphy. "Today's appointments bring an array of perspectives and experiences, including in private legal practice, as state and municipal prosecutors, and in elected office."
The new commissioners each expressed gratitude and commitment to their roles. Tom Prol, the incoming ELEC Chairman, emphasized the need for fairness, honesty, and respect in the execution of his duties. Ryan Peters, the incoming ELEC Commissioner, echoed this sentiment, underscoring his commitment to public service and transparent enforcement of election laws.
Norma Evans, the first Black woman to serve as an ELEC Commissioner, voiced her dedication to maintaining the integrity of campaign finances, while Jon-Henry Barr, another incoming Commissioner, expressed his enthusiasm for the enforcement of election laws as part of his commitment to justice.
Tom Prol, an accomplished attorney and an influential advocate for civil rights, has an extensive career background in business, litigation, environmental, and land use law. Ryan Peters, a former Assemblyman and a US Navy veteran, has a distinguished history of public service and legal practice. Norma Evans, a long-standing Deputy Attorney General, brings a wealth of experience in public law and community service. Jon-Henry Barr, a Chief Municipal Prosecutor in Clark Township, has dedicated his life to justice and public service.
In conjunction with these appointments, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 333. This order rescinds and supersedes several prior Executive Orders to align with the Elections Transparency Act, simplifying compliance for government contractors. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure greater transparency and fairness in New Jersey's elections.
Today's appointments mark Governor Murphy's first to the ELEC since taking office and complete the commission's roster for the first time since 2017. With these new appointments and the new Executive Order, Governor Murphy is reaffirming the state's commitment to fair, transparent elections, free from the influence of undue financial or political pressures.
