New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver Dies at 71, leaving Acting Governor Position
New Jersey is mourning the loss of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver, who tragically passed away at the age of 71. Oliver had been rushed to the hospital on Monday, according to an announcement from the governor’s office, and sadly, she died the following day.
Oliver had been serving as the acting governor prior to her untimely death. She took on this responsibility in July when Governor Phil Murphy went on vacation to Italy. The sudden passing of Oliver has left the state in shock and sadness.
The late lieutenant governor had been admitted to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston with an undisclosed medical condition. The governor’s office declined to provide further details about her condition. While Oliver was hospitalized, Governor Murphy’s spokesperson, Mahen Gunaratna, stated that the governor would be returning soon without specifying an exact date. Originally scheduled to return on August 13th, Murphy’s plans have been altered due to this tragic event.
No cause of death has been given at this time, as stated by Murphy’s office in the Oliver family’s official statement. Murphy expressed his and his family’s deep distress upon hearing the news. He also mentioned that naming Oliver as his lieutenant governor was one of the best decisions he has ever made.
Sheila Oliver gained statewide attention in 2010 when she became the speaker of the New Jersey State Assembly. Prior to that, she had been serving in the assembly since 2004. Her election as speaker was unanimous among Assembly Democrats. Born and raised in Newark, Oliver obtained a sociology degree from Pennsylvania’s Lincoln University before returning to the Newark area. In 1996, she joined the Essex County board of chosen freeholders.
During her time as acting governor, Oliver made significant contributions to the state. She signed several bills, including one in 2021 that established a pilot program aimed at overhauling New Jersey’s juvenile justice system in four localities. The program focused on successfully reintegrating young individuals into their communities.
As lieutenant governor, Oliver served as the top deputy to Democratic Governor Phil Murphy. She also oversaw the Department of Community Affairs, which coordinated state aid to towns and cities and supervised code enforcement.
Oliver was widely recognized for her charisma and eloquence as a public speaker. She frequently attended bill signings and events alongside Governor Murphy, who often introduced her as his rocking lieutenant governor.
Governor Murphy expressed his admiration for Oliver, acknowledging her invaluable perspective in shaping public policy discourse. He emphasized her inspiration to millions of women and girls, particularly young women of color. Her friendship and partnership were deemed irreplaceable by the governor.
Sheila Oliver was elected lieutenant governor twice, first in 2017 and again in 2021, alongside Governor Murphy. She was only the second person to hold the position of lieutenant governor, a relatively newer government role that began under former Governor Chris Christie.
Following Oliver’s hospitalization, the state Senate president stepped in as acting governor, in accordance with the state’s constitutionally mandated order of succession. However, according to New Jersey’s constitution, Governor Murphy will appoint Oliver’s successor within 45 days.
The passing of Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver leaves a void in New Jersey’s political landscape. Her contributions and dedication to public service will be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire future leaders.
