Former New Jersey Governor James Florio visited Saint Peter’s University last week for a forum and book signing. Florio was interviewed by Nick Acocella, publisher and editor of Politifax, and touched on topics from his book Standing on Principle. The event was sponsored by the Caulfield School of Education, the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership, the public administration program and the political science department.
“Policy issues played a primary role during the Florio Administration. He is still extremely knowledgeable about the issues facing the state and is not afraid to confront them, which he effectively did during his discussion at the Saint Peter’s University book signing event,” said Joseph Doria Jr., Ed.D. ’68, dean of the Caulfield School of Education.
Florio took an unusual path for governors; he went to the Navy where he became a boxing champion before entering politics. He served as governor of New Jersey from 1990-1994 and is best known for his work revitalizing the environment. He initiated the Superfund legislation during his tenure in congress, which cleaned up polluted sites in the country. He continues to be a passionate defender of the environment.
“For those of you who can remember the ‘80s, the Jersey Shore was closed for a portion of the decade because of contamination. When I came into office, we cracked down on this and the shore became much cleaner,” said Florio.
The book also extensively discusses Florio’s up-bringing in Brooklyn with his parents who he describes as “salt-of-the-earth” people.
“Most of my views have been shaped by the experiences I have had. All through the book, I use these experiences and events to demonstrate why I think about things the way that I do,” said Florio.
When asked during the interview why there was a considerable gap between when Florio was governor and when he decided to publish his first book, he responded that he needed time to think and process.
“One conclusion I came to is that your early life dictates a lot of things you do for the rest of your life,” said Florio. “There were traits and characteristics that my parents gave to me that I wasn’t aware of until I retired. For example, my father was a hard worker and very industrious. In addition, he loved poker. I never thought I was a gambler, but then I realized I was. I took a stance on a lot of things that were against the odds.”
“The audience was intrigued to learn how Florio was a high school dropout and was eventually elected to the highest statewide office. It was interesting to hear how Governor Florio’s unpopular tax plan, which led to his reelection defeat could have kept New Jersey out of its current fiscal crisis, particularly as it relates to funding state pensions,” said Emory Edwards, interim executive director of the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership and director of corporate, foundation and government relations.
In 2014, Florio was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame for public service and is currently touring New Jersey and surrounding areas promoting his book.