Chris DePhillips

Christopher P. DePhillips is an American attorney and politician affiliated with the Republican Party, currently serving as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly, representing the 40th Legislative District. He has held this position since 2018 and has been actively involved in state politics, including serving as the GOP conference leader since 2024, making him the third highest-ranking Republican in the New Jersey Assembly. DePhillips has a background in local governance and law, having previously served as a committeeman and mayor in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Early life and career

Christopher DePhillips was born on March 30, 1965, in Northvale, New Jersey. He spent his early childhood in Northvale until 1968, when his family moved to Old Tappan, New Jersey. Growing up in a politically active household, DePhillips was influenced by his parents, who were dedicated members of the Republican Party and served on the local Republican county committee. His father had a professional background as a civil engineer and held a position as the CEO of an engineering firm. He also served as an assistant commissioner in the New Jersey Department of Transportation during the early 1970s under Governor William T. Cahill. This environment fostered DePhillips' interest in politics from a young age.

DePhillips attended Bergen Catholic High School, graduating in 1983. He then pursued higher education at Georgetown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in government in 1987. Following his undergraduate studies, he worked in Washington, D.C., as an aide to Congresswoman Marge Roukema from 1987 to 1989. DePhillips later attended Seton Hall University School of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctor degree in 1992.

In addition to his political career, DePhillips has built a professional background in law. He has worked as a partner at several law firms, including Gibbons and Porzio Bromberg & Newman. From 2016 until 2024, he served as the chief operating officer and general counsel at Porzio Life Sciences, a role he held until the firm was acquired by RLDatix in 2022. In April 2024, he returned to private practice, becoming an equity partner at the North Jersey law firm Bernstein DePhillips & Kalosieh.

DePhillips' local political career began in Wyckoff, where he served on the Township Committee from 2010 to 2013. His peers unanimously selected him to serve as mayor in 2012. Additionally, he was appointed as a Commissioner of the Northwest Bergen County Utilities Authority in June 2012, a position he held until 2017. This role involved overseeing sewage treatment services for approximately 75,000 residents in Bergen County.

Legislative service

Christopher DePhillips was first elected to the New Jersey General Assembly in 2018, representing the 40th Legislative District. His tenure in the Assembly has seen him take on various leadership roles, including being appointed as the deputy Republican leader in 2021. In 2024, he ascended to the position of GOP conference leader, which places him among the top ranks of Republican leadership within the Assembly.

Throughout his legislative career, DePhillips has focused on a range of issues, particularly those related to taxation and fiscal policy. He has been vocal about his priorities, emphasizing the need for tax cuts and reduced government spending. DePhillips has introduced several bills aimed at lowering New Jersey's corporate business tax and sales tax, as well as increasing the allowable deductions for rental payments from property taxes. He has also expressed concerns about the financial burdens faced by seniors and has sponsored legislation to enhance support for low-income nursing home residents.

In response to safety concerns, DePhillips introduced a bill to establish a task force dedicated to developing safety policies for special education students who use school transportation. His legislative efforts also include measures aimed at protecting the personal information of state legislators, particularly in light of recent violent incidents involving public officials.

DePhillips has been active in addressing issues related to New Jersey Transit, criticizing its organizational structure rather than a lack of funding. As a member of the Assembly Transportation Committee, he has called for leadership changes within the agency, advocating for improvements in its operations.

In addition to his focus on transportation and fiscal policy, DePhillips has engaged in discussions surrounding election integrity. He introduced a bill that would allow for the counting of vote-by-mail ballots as they are received, aiming to address delays and improve the electoral process.

Policy focus and district

As a representative of the 40th Legislative District, DePhillips is part of a legislative team that includes Senator Kristin Corrado and Assemblyman Al Barlas. The district encompasses several municipalities, and DePhillips' policy initiatives reflect the needs and concerns of his constituents. His legislative agenda has been characterized by a commitment to reducing taxes, enhancing public safety, and improving services for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors.

DePhillips' electoral history includes successful campaigns in the New Jersey General Assembly elections. In 2021, he was re-elected alongside his running mate, securing a significant number of votes against their Democratic opponents. In the 2023 elections, DePhillips and Barlas, running under the leadership of Senator Corrado, again achieved victory, reinforcing their positions in the Assembly.

In summary, Christopher DePhillips has established himself as a prominent figure in New Jersey politics through his legal expertise and commitment to public service. His legislative work continues to focus on key issues that resonate with his constituents, reflecting his dedication to the principles of fiscal responsibility and community support. As he continues his service in the New Jersey General Assembly, DePhillips remains an influential voice within the Republican Party and the broader legislative landscape of the state.