Lee B. Laskin

Lee B. Laskin was a prominent American attorney and politician who served as a member of the New Jersey State Senate from 1978 to 1992. A member of the Republican Party, Laskin represented the 6th Legislative District, which includes parts of Camden County. His political career began in the late 1960s, and he was known for his distinctive approach to governance, often characterized by his willingness to challenge party lines and established norms. Laskin's legislative tenure was marked by his involvement in various significant issues, including judicial appointments and local governance. After his legislative career, he transitioned to the judiciary, serving on the New Jersey Superior Court until reaching the mandatory retirement age.

Early life and career

Lee Laskin was born on June 30, 1936, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He completed his secondary education at Camden High School, graduating in 1954. Following high school, Laskin pursued higher education, first attending American University and then transferring to Temple University. He ultimately graduated from Rutgers Law School in 1960. Early in his career, Laskin worked as a law clerk for U.S. Representative William T. Cahill, which provided him with foundational experience in legal and governmental processes.

In 1962, Laskin began his public service career as an assistant city solicitor for the City of Camden. He later served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey from 1964 to 1966. After his tenure in federal service, Laskin entered private practice, where he worked as a municipal attorney throughout Camden County. He represented various local boards of education and non-profit organizations, establishing a reputation as a dedicated attorney. Additionally, he founded and chaired Glendale National Bank, further expanding his influence in the community. Laskin was also involved in a bipartisan coalition that opposed the Democratic state senator Alfred R. Pierce, showcasing his willingness to engage in political contests across party lines.

Legislative service

Laskin's political career in the New Jersey Legislature began in 1968 when he was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly. He ran for office in a newly drawn district that included Camden, Audubon, Audubon Park, and Haddon Township, a change resulting from a New Jersey Supreme Court decision. In the 1967 general election, Laskin and his running mate, local NAACP leader Gretchen Waples, faced Democratic incumbent John Horn and Camden councilman Elijah Perry. Laskin secured a seat in the Assembly, defeating Perry by a notable margin.

During his time in the Assembly, Laskin was active in investigating the finances of independent agencies and played a role in establishing the South Jersey Port Corporation. He also sought to repeal a law that granted the Delaware River Port Authority control over Camden's waterfront redevelopment. His legislative actions were sometimes controversial; he was one of three Republicans who abstained from a vote to repeal unemployment benefits during labor disputes. In 1969, he faced allegations regarding his associations with organized crime, which he dismissed as unfounded. An Assembly investigation ultimately cleared him of any wrongdoing.

In 1970, Laskin transitioned to the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders, where he served until 1973. He was elected during a period of Republican dominance in the county, succeeding two incumbents who had chosen to pursue other political avenues. Laskin's tenure on the board was marked by internal conflicts, particularly with the county party chairman, which influenced his decision not to seek re-election in 1972. He later became involved in party leadership by successfully running for county chair in 1976.

Laskin's ascent to the New Jersey State Senate occurred in 1978 when he was selected to run for the seat previously held by Democratic incumbent Alene S. Ammond. After a competitive primary process, he emerged as the Republican candidate and won the general election with a majority of the vote. He was subsequently re-elected multiple times, facing various opponents, including judges and local mayors. His legislative career in the Senate lasted until 1992, during which he became known for his independent stance on several issues.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Laskin was recognized for his distinctive policy focus and his approach to governance. He was often described as a political renegade, earning the nickname "Dr. No" due to his frequent obstruction of proposed legislation. His voting record included significant decisions, such as casting the decisive vote to retain Robert N. Wilentz as chief justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court in 1986. This vote was particularly notable given the contentious political climate surrounding judicial appointments at the time.

Laskin's representation of the 6th Legislative District encompassed a diverse constituency, including urban and suburban communities. His legislative priorities often reflected the needs and concerns of his district, as he engaged with local issues and advocated for initiatives that would benefit his constituents. His background as a municipal attorney and his involvement in local governance provided him with insights into the challenges faced by communities in Camden County.

After his defeat in the 1991 election, Laskin's career took a new direction when he was appointed by Governor Christine Todd Whitman to serve on the New Jersey Superior Court. He continued to serve in the judiciary until reaching the mandatory retirement age in 2006, although he was frequently recalled for service until 2016. Laskin's contributions to both the legislative and judicial branches of government reflect a long-standing commitment to public service and the legal profession in New Jersey. His career spanned several decades and encompassed significant developments in state politics and law.