Verplanck says she's had no discussions about running with Corzine; Gov. praises Chamber leader, but has no comment on LG

New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Joan Verplanck says she has had no contact with Gov. Jon Corzine or his staff about running for Lt. Governor, and says becoming a candidate has "never crossed her mind."  PolitickerNJ.com's Inside Edge reported late Friday night that she was under consideration for the post, based upon information from three sources with direct links to the LG selection process.  These sources suggest that Verplanck and State Sen. Barbara Buono (D-Metuchen) are the most serious contenders to become Corzine's running mate, and continue to stand behind that contention. 

"I would like to respond to the rumor that I am being considered as Governor Corzine's running mate.  I want to be clear that I have not spoken with anyone from the Governor's office regarding the position, and have no idea where this rumor came from," Verplanck said in an e-mail. "I am hopeful that the whoever the candidate is, she will be conversant in the role a vibrant business climate plays in fulfilling the vision of a fully-employed population, and that she will advocate for policies to create that climate for the good of all New Jerseyans."

"Governor Corzine has always had a great working relationship with Joan Verplank and the Chamber and he continues to be impressed with the work they do," said Sean Darcy, a spokesman for the Corzine campaign.  "We have had a great working relationship with them, and we look forward to continuing it. As for the Lieutenant Governor position, we have no comment."

Verplanck also sought to "clarify my use of the word stupid as relates to the Chamber's annual Congressional Dinner."

"In an interview with Josh Margolin, I stated that the premise that people would use the train as a vehicle to "cut deals" -- in a crowded environment crawling with journalists and cell phones that take pictures and record video -- was stupid," Verplanck wrote. "I didn't say the Republicans' decision was stupid.  I said that the premise on which they based the decision was stupid."

Verplanck, who has headed the state business association since 1995, says he plans to vote in the Republican primary tomorrow.