This is a very sad and unfortunate day for New Jersey. I take no pleasure in seeking Justice Verniero's resignation. However, we have at stake the integrity of our government and the confidence of our citizens. Our Supreme Court has a well-deserved reputation for excellence. As long as Justice Verniero sits on that court, it will enjoy a reputation less than it is worthy of.
Citizens look to our courts as the final arbiter of fact and fairness.
When a nominee fails to be completely forthright and open with the Senate, that undermines confidence in the process. When a member of the Supreme Court is viewed as having exercised his authority as Attorney General in a way that ignored or concealed certain facts, that undermines confidence in him. When those facts demonstrate that our citizens are not receiving equal treatment under the law that undermines confidence in our system. Racial profiling is a blight on this state and on the honest, hard working men and women of law enforcement who have dedicated their lives to protecting us. When I authorized this review by the Senate Judiciary Committee, my hope was that the process would lead us toward steps to eradicate the evils of racial profiling and heal the wounds that it has created.