Tiffany Williams Brewer has resigned as CEO of the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation.
According to Fox News, her abrupt resignation followed a scandal involving her voting records and a Maryland residency claim.
After assuming the role at the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation, Tiffany Williams Brewer's tenure was cut short by allegations related to her residence. Reports emerged that while she had claimed a Maryland property as her principal residence, she still participated in voting in New Jersey's last presidential election.
According to Asbury Park Press, Tiffany Williams Brewer signed an affidavit on March 13, 2024, indicating that her main residence was in Maryland. Despite this, the Monmouth County Board of Elections confirmed her participation in the New Jersey vote.
This discrepancy raised questions about her eligibility to vote, ultimately leading to her removal from the New Jersey voter rolls by the Superintendent/Registrar of Elections. Christopher P. Siciliano, Monmouth County Superintendent of Elections, noted that Williams Brewer could regain her voter status if she proves her eligibility in New Jersey.
Williams Brewer was appointed by Governor Phil Murphy in 2022 and has served as the Chair of the commission since her appointment. Her leadership period extended through 2024, during which she also filled an interim role following the passing of former Executive Director Chadd W. Lackey.
She is also recognized for her academic role as an assistant professor of law at Howard University's School of Law.
In response to the controversy, Tiffany Williams Brewer stated on LinkedIn, denying any wrongdoing related to her dual residency. She emphasized her transparency and compliance with all relevant laws.
Furthermore, Tiffany Williams Brewer highlighted challenges within the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation, attributing her resignation to a toxic work culture exacerbated by misrepresentations of her actions by some employees.
John P. Lacey, Chair of the commission, commented on the need for continued integrity and accountability within the organization, affirming the commission's dedication to its core values amid leadership changes.
John P. Lacey also noted, "The Commission is actively working to find a new Executive Director and has posted the job on the SCI’s website and several other public websites. Additionally, with the new appointments recently issued by Governor Murphy, the commission is now at its full complement with four Commissioners and newly-named Chair John P. Lacey. We remain committed to our core values and are confident that with renewed leadership, we will continue to serve the residents of New Jersey with the highest level of integrity."
Comments from Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon underscore the seriousness with which local election officials view election integrity, a principle that has partially governed the actions taken in Williams Brewer’s case.
The personnel changes at the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation follow a history of the agency's extensive work against organized crime, waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer resources. Despite the recent developments, the commission maintains its commitment to its historical mission and the public's trust.
In conclusion, Tiffany Williams Brewer's resignation marks a significant turn in the narrative of the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation, as it seeks to realign and reinforce its mission under new leadership, continuing its near six-decade legacy of fighting corruption and safeguarding public resources.
