N.J. governor lays out accomplishments in tearful speech to supporters prior to resignation

By Lindsay Grace

November 10, 2004 | TRENTON, N.J. -– Gov. Jim McGreevey used his farewell address Monday to apologize, detail his accomplishments and talk about the soul-searching he has done since his August announcement of the career-damaging affair he had with a man.

"I am sorry that I have disappointed the citizens of the state of New Jersey, who gave me this enormous trust," McGreevey said during the 15-minute address to staff and supporters. "I am not apologizing for being a gay American but rather for having let personal feelings impact my decision-making."

McGreevey, still wearing his wedding ring, used the speech to cite a laundry list of actions he claims as accomplishments during his reign as governor of New Jersey. He highlighted reforms of the state's child welfare agency, environmental protection and benefits for domestic partners.

"This untimely departure, this farewell, should not and does not take away in the least from the good, good work that you did," he said to a crowd of about 400 people at the State Museum Auditorium.

McGreevey received a standing ovation after he slipped on stage through a back curtain to begin his speech. He received another one as he left hugging staff members.

The bulk of the speech focused on McGreevey's thoughts about what he called the nation's divisive political climate and his feelings about being, "an American who just happens to be gay and proud."

"I don't look back with bitterness, anger or sorrow. I look forward to seeking knowledge, a journey of self-discovery," said the governor, who quoted philosophers, poets and Martin Luther King Jr. in his address.

During the address, the governor called for an end to partisan politics and blamed himself for contributing to a climate in which "we smile in person than throw each other under the bus when we leave the room." Senate President Richard Codey, a Democrat, is to finish out the term once McGreevey steps down from office Sunday.

Republicans criticized McGreevey for staying in office as long as he did afer acknowledging the affair. They also charge his term was marked by ethical missteps made by his administration.

"The reality is the governor disgraced himself and the state," Assembly Republican leader Alex DeCroce said. "The only people who did exceptionally well under his administration were his friends and campaign contributors."

Aides to McGreevey said the governor had an affair with his one-time homeland security adviser, Golan Cipel. Cipel denies involvement with McGreevey and has alleged he was sexually harassed by the governor.

McGreevey's wife, who stood by his side during his initial announcement, was not present during his farewell speech. Sources say she and the governor plan to move to separate homes next month.

His family did not attend the speech Monday.

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