Former Gov. Brendan Byrne Visits Watchung

Former New Jersey Governor Brendan T. Byrne, joined by his wife Ruthi, visited the fourth grade classes at Watchung School on Mon., June 4 for a question and answer session about his experiences leading the state. The Byrne’s grandson Danny is a fourth grader at Watchung. Since the students were unable to travel to the State House, the visit was coordinated to give them a glimpse into New Jersey government.

Byrne, the 47th Governor of the State of New Jersey was elected in 1974 and served two terms. He fielded many interesting inquiries from students ranging from “Did you have bodyguards?” to “What is the craziest law you vetoed?” The former governor cited saving the New Jersey Pinelands and the development of the Meadowlands complex as some of his greatest accomplishments. The hardest part? “Making unpopular decisions and having to explain to the public and get them to understand and support you.”