July 1, 2008 - 9:29am
News

Is this Kyrillos' last term?

If Joseph Kyrillos doesn’t get picked to run for Lt. Governor in 2009, he’s likely to retire from the State Senate in 2011, according to a Monmouth GOP leader with knowledge of Kyrillos’ plans.  The six-term State Senator is actively seeking the LG nod, hoping to run on a ticket with his friend, U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie.

Assemblywoman Amy Handlin would be the front runner to succeed Kyrillos in the Senate -- though not at all automatic on the GOP side -- if the 13th district seat remains intact after redistricting.  If the seat is open, mapmakers could move State Sen. Jennifer Beck into District 13; her hometown, Red Bank, borders on the 13th.  That could boost the chances for Democrats to recapture the 12th district, where former State Sen. Ellen Karcher and former Assemblyman Michael Panter are mulling comebacks.

Kyrillos, 48, has served in the Legislature since 1987, and declined opportunities to run for statewide office several times, including earlier this year when Republicans were actively shopping for a U.S. Senate candidate.  A former GOP State Chairman, Kyrillos unsuccessfully challenged Rep. Frank Pallone in 1992.

Wally Edge can be reached via email at politicsnj@aol.com.