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Acting Governor Tahesha Way has ordered U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff from Friday, November 8, 2024, through Sunday, November 10, 2024, in honor of former state Assembly Speaker Chuck Haytaian, who passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 86. The announcement was made in a press release from the Governor's office.
Haytaian, an Armenian American, was a respected figure in New Jersey politics, known for his dedication to public service. He began his career as an engineer working on the Lunar Excursion Module at Grumman Aerospace. In 1975, he was elected as a Warren County Freeholder, and in 1981, he joined the New Jersey General Assembly. He served as Speaker from 1992 to 1996.
During his tenure, Haytaian prioritized tax reform and was instrumental in making New Jersey one of the first states to mandate that its public schools teach the history of the Holocaust and other genocides. He was also a key ally of Governor Christine Todd Whitman and ran against two-term Senator Frank Lautenberg, losing by fewer than 68,000 votes.
"Speaker Haytaian was a giant across New Jersey politics,” said Acting Governor Way. “Born to survivors of the Armenian Genocide, Speaker Chuck Haytaian devoted his life to serving the people of New Jersey. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and remain forever grateful for his legacy of service.”