Retiring NJ Senator Ronald Rice Has Made Newark Proud, Officials Say

NEWARK, NJ — As a state senator, Ronald Rice left his mark across New Jersey. But the veteran lawmaker – who will soon be retiring from the Legislature – has left a special legacy in Newark.

Rice (D-28), a Newark resident, recently announced he will retire at the end of August. The longest-serving Black legislator in state history, Rice has reportedly been in ill health this year, which has limited his ability to travel to Trenton or attend community events. Read More: NJ Senator Ronald Rice Is Retiring; Here's What Happens Now

Rice served on the Newark Police Department for eight years before entering politics. The U.S. Marine Corps veteran holds a master's degree in criminal justice from Rutgers University, and is the chair of the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus. He has served on the Newark City Council, and has been a Democratic County Committee member since 1976. Read more about his achievements and recent bills sponsored here.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka spoke about Rice’s contributions to the Brick City in a statement about his retirement.

“Ron Rice achieved considerable recognition throughout his life – as a Vietnam veteran, Newark police detective, first African-American to hold a West Ward council seat, deputy mayor, and first African-American to hold elected office in both state and local government and represents why we are Newark and proud of it,” the mayor said.

Baraka continued:

“For 36 years, Ron Rice has represented Newark’s residents in the state Senate proudly, with honor and a true commitment to a better future for us all. With equal rights and social justice at the forefront of his life and an incredible body of legislative work, he authored bold, landmark bills that strengthened our economy, empowered education, and improved the quality of life for our city and our residents. He is a staple in Newark and across the state and is always there to fight for us all. He has always been there for me in my role as mayor and I have immense respect and gratitude for him, as well as his leadership and guidance throughout the years. He is the quintessential public servant and always shows up and fights for us all when we need him. Newark’s next state senator will have immense shoes to fill.”

“As Ron Rice enters a new phase of his life, we wish him all the best and thank him for his great service to our city and its people,” Baraka concluded.

Meanwhile, Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. has proposed naming the athletic complex under construction in Vailsburg Park as the “Ronald L. Rice Athletic Complex” in his honor.

The park is located in Newark’s West Ward in the heart of District 28, which Rice has represented for the last 35 years.

“As a Marine veteran, Newark councilman and state senator, Ron Rice always fought for what he believed,” DiVincenzo said. “I’ve known Ron for over 50 years and two things have been consistent: he’s always been a staunch advocate for his constituents and the city he loves, and you always knew where he stood on an issue.”

DiVincenzo said he’s appreciated Rice’s “candor, energy and insight” while working alongside him on recreation programs and other issues in Newark.

“Ron is a unique individual and the void created by his retirement will be difficult to fill,” he added.

The county executive’s proposal will be sent to the Essex County Board of County Commissioners for review.

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