Annette Quijano

Annette Quijano is a prominent American politician affiliated with the Democratic Party, currently serving as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly for the 20th Legislative District. She has held this position since September 25, 2008, and has made significant contributions to state governance and policy-making. Quijano is notable for being the first woman and the first minority to represent her district, reflecting her commitment to diversity and representation in New Jersey's political landscape.

Early life and career

Born on July 4, 1962, Annette Quijano is a native of New Jersey, where she grew up as the daughter of Puerto Rican parents. Her upbringing in Elizabeth, New Jersey, has shaped her understanding of the community she serves. Quijano pursued higher education at Rutgers University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management. She continued her education at Rutgers School of Law–Newark, obtaining her Juris Doctor in 1991.

Following her graduation from law school, Quijano gained valuable experience through various clerkships. She worked at the New Jersey Superior Court in Newark and held positions in the Office of the Governor's Counsel and the New Jersey Department of the Public Advocate in Trenton. Her legal career includes bar admissions in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, which has allowed her to practice law in multiple jurisdictions.

In addition to her legal practice, Quijano has served as a municipal prosecutor for the City of Elizabeth. Her professional background also includes a role as a Compliance Manager for Prudential/Aetna U.S. Healthcare and experience in civil practice as an attorney. Quijano's career in public service began in earnest when she served as Chief of Staff to State Senator Raymond Lesniak from 1992 to 1994. She has also held positions as Assistant Counsel to Union County and Clerk to the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders. Furthermore, she served as Assistant Counsel to three New Jersey governors: Jim McGreevey, Richard Codey, and Jon Corzine.

Quijano's commitment to community service is evident through her involvement in various organizations. She has participated in the United Way Hispanic Advisory Council of Union County and the Governor's Working Group for Hispanic Affairs. Additionally, she has served on a Legal Services committee in Elizabeth and was a Commissioner for New Jersey's Congressional Redistricting efforts. Her contributions to public service have been recognized with awards such as the Excellence in State Government Leadership and the Women of Excellence in Government awards. Quijano also dedicates her time to mentoring young adults, encouraging them to pursue careers in law and graduate studies.

Legislative service

Annette Quijano was selected to the New Jersey General Assembly by a convention of Union County Democrats, succeeding Neil Cohen, who resigned from his position. Quijano's election marked a significant milestone as she became the first woman and first minority to represent the 20th Legislative District. She was sworn into office on September 25, 2008, and has since been an active participant in the legislative process.

In her role as a legislator, Quijano has held several leadership positions. She serves as the General Assembly Deputy Majority Leader and chairs the Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee. Additionally, she is a member of the Labor Committee, where she engages in discussions and decisions regarding labor-related issues in the state.

Quijano's legislative initiatives reflect her commitment to addressing important issues within her district and the state. For instance, in June 2017, she introduced a bill to designate Streptomyces griseus as New Jersey's State Microbe. This initiative aimed to recognize the significance of this microorganism, which is native to New Jersey and has made notable contributions to healthcare and scientific research. The strain of S. griseus that produces the antibiotic streptomycin was discovered in New Jersey in 1916 and later developed into an antibiotic by a Rutgers University team. This bill highlights Quijano's focus on promoting New Jersey's scientific heritage and its contributions to public health.

In January 2025, Quijano was elected as speaker pro tempore, succeeding Benjie Wimberly, who transitioned to the State Senate. This role further emphasizes her leadership within the Assembly and her influence in shaping legislative priorities.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New Jersey General Assembly, Annette Quijano represents the 20th Legislative District, which includes parts of Union County. Each district in the New Jersey Legislature is composed of one senator and two assembly members, and the 20th District is currently represented by Senator Joseph Cryan and Assemblyman Reginald Atkins alongside Quijano.

Quijano's policy focus encompasses a range of issues pertinent to her constituents and the broader New Jersey community. Her work on the Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee indicates a commitment to ensuring the safety and security of New Jersey residents. Additionally, her involvement in the Labor Committee suggests a dedication to addressing labor issues, advocating for workers' rights, and promoting economic development in her district.

In the 2024–2025 Legislative Session, Quijano's committee assignments include serving as vice-chair of the Consumer Affairs Committee, as well as being a member of the Housing and Labor Committees. These roles allow her to engage with critical issues affecting her constituents, such as consumer protection, housing availability, and labor relations.

Quijano's legislative service and policy focus reflect her dedication to her community and her commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents. Through her work, she aims to contribute to the development and well-being of New Jersey, ensuring that the voices of her district are heard in the state's legislative process.