The InsiderNJ.com list reflects the backbone of government and political power in the state of New Jersey, minus judges, former governors, and current elected officials. In its compilation, they paid particular attention to the consequences of this year’s statewide election, in which Democrat Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli. Beyond that core defined by a strong (but not immutable) NJ establishment, the most significant change from last year, therefore, reflects political power shifted from the departing administration of Governor Phil Murphy to the players around Governor-elect Sherrill.
The list also recognizes the special role progressive Democrats played in the election’s outcome. Given the power of the New Jersey Governor, we prioritized players critical to the success of Sherrill’s campaign, finding the leaders, operatives, activists, workers, and wonks who helped her craft a crushing 13-point victory. In addition, we gave weight to those seen as either on their way into her new administration or likely beneficiaries of her fledgling governorship. They found relevant grassroots and organization people who empowered Sherrill and dealt a blow to the perceived abuse of power by President Donald J. Trump.
Bloustein School’s Marc Pfeiffer was ranked #47.
Marc H. Pfeiffer is a Senior Policy Fellow and Assistant Director of Bloustein Local, part of the Center for Urban Policy Research. He retired in 2012 from a 37-year career in New Jersey local government administration, having served as a municipal administrator in several municipalities, and 26 years of service in the State’s local government oversight agency, the Division of Local Government Services. At DLGS he served as Deputy Director for 14 years, and periodically as Acting Director.
Marc has broad experience in many areas of local government policy and administration, including specific expertise in areas such as finance and property taxation, public procurement, shared services and consolidation, technology, energy, labor relations, and general government administration. He also has deep experience in the legislative process and as a regulatory officer. He is currently engaged in research concerning the use of technology in local government.
In addition to participating in Bloustein Local, Marc makes his extensive government experience available as a guest lecturer and other collaborative efforts. He is also assisting the Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration with the State’s Certified Public Manager Program in curriculum development and instruction.
Bob Gordon and his wife Gail, were ranked #94.
Mr. Gordon is a Bloustein School Policy Fellow. He is a former New Jersey state senator, utility commissioner, transportation policy maker and corporate management consultant whose diverse skills make him particularly adept at addressing issues at the intersection of business and government.