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Legislators, other elected officials, and business and labor leaders reacted to the death of Assembly Republican leader Alex DeCroce (R-Morris) with praise for him and sadness at his passing.

Senate Republican leader Tom Kean (R-Union) - "Alex was a true leader for the Republican caucus in the Assembly, and was loved and respected by legislators of both chambers, on both sides of the aisle....It is hard to believe we will start a new legislative “session without his wit, charm, and energy."

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Jon Bramnick (R-Union) - “I am deeply saddened by the shocking and painful loss of Leader DeCroce. Alex became a close personal friend over the years and I spent many hours by his side. He was a model statesman who led our caucus with grace and integrity. Alex was a mentor to many of us, and his wisdom and kindness made this state a better place. We have lost one of our most dedicated public servants.”

Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg (D-Bergen) - “It’s with great sadness that we mark the passing of our friend and colleague, Assemblyman Alex DeCroce. His commitment to public service was unquestionable, and, though we weren’t always on the same side on all the issues, when we disagreed, it was always respectful. I first met Alex and his wife BettyLou while working with her on issues involving advocacy for the victims of crime. We were more than just Legislative colleagues – we were friends.”

State Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa - “As chief counsel to the governor, I had the opportunity to work very closely with Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce. I was consistently impressed with his character, leadership and absolute dedication to the people of New Jersey. My thoughts and prayers are with his entire family.”

Assemblyman John S. Wisniewski (D-Middlesex) - "New Jersey has lost a true public servant in Alex DeCroce. I first met him when I entered the Legislature and was assigned to the Assembly Transportation Committee he chaired. I came to know him as an honorable adversary whose disagreements were never disagreeable and whose motivation was always to do his best for our state and the constituents he represented.

His passing leaves a great void in our Legislature and it is with immense sadness that I join my colleagues in offering my condolences to his wife, his family and to all who had the privilege of calling him a friend."

State Republican Chairman Samuel Raia - “Last night the state of New Jersey lost not just a capable and dignified public servant but a truly great and passionate human being. Throughout his long and dedicated career, Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce defined what it meant to faithfully represent the people of this state. His strong leadership and thoughtful voice will be missed for years to come.”

Philip Kirschner, New Jersey Business & Industry Assn. president - “NJBIA joins with all people throughout New Jersey to mourn the tragic passing of Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce. New Jersey has lost a fine statesmen and an outstanding legislator and leader. He set a high standard for honesty and integrity in his conduct of state business, and he was known for his hard work, courage and forthrightness. Alex’s passing deeply saddens all of us who had the privilege to know him and to work with him over the years. He was a very decent and honorable man.”