Andrew Poag

DENVER - Joe Biden’s blue collar roots, support from police and firefighters, his regular guy commute to and from his job in Washington, and his foreign policy credentials all contribute to helping Barack Obama’s presidential campaign effort in New Jersey, according to spokesman Andrew Poag.

"He has a real connection to middle class voters," said Poag of the Delaware senator and presumptive vice presidential candidate, with whom Obama will stand today in Springfield, Illinois.

"He’s never lived in Washington, and he’s almost like a third senator in New Jersey," said Poag, who received a text message at 3 a.m. Saturday confirming Biden as Obama’s veep pick.

In a conversation with PolitickerNJ.com earlier this summer, Assembly Speaker Joe Roberts (D-Camden), noted Biden’s special connection to South Jersey, where his wife, Jill, has roots.

Andrew Poag will take a leave of absence from Gov. Jon Corzine’s staff to serve as Communications Director for Barack Obama’s New Jersey campaign.  Poag worked for the Democratic State Committee during Corzine’s 2005 campaign, and served in the transition office before joining the Governor’s communications staff in 2006.

For Immediate Release
December 9, 2005

CONTACTS:
Ivette Mendez
Andrew Poag
Brendan Gilfillan
(609) 826-5100

Governor-elect Corzine's Statement on Congressman Bob Menendez

"In making this decision I was blessed to have several qualified individuals to choose from. The voters have given me the responsibility to make tough decisions - I have made a decision that I believe is the right one.

The symbolism of the American promise meets reality in the person, career and service of Congressman Menendez. He's a fierce and articulate advocate for New Jersey's needs and is committed to a progressive and responsible view of the role of government in our society.