James Patrick Fox, a loyal son of New Jersey, passed away on Monday, February 20, at age 62. Jamie, as he was known since childhood, was born in Elizabeth, NJ, on October 30, 1954.
Jamie’s entire life was spent in the public sector, and he was surely one of the giants of NJ politics. In 40 years of service, he twice served as the Commissioner of Transportation, once under Democratic Governor Jim McGreevey and then under Republican Governor Chris Christie. Earlier, Jamie was the Chief of Staff or advisor to four NJ Governors: McGreevey, Florio, Cody and Corzine. In addition, he was Chief of Staff to Senator Robert Torricelli, as well as a former Director of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
In 2008, Jamie spearheaded the successful Florida presidential campaign for Barack Obama. Jamie was involved in many important NJ public policy achievements of the past 30 years, including NJ’s assault weapons ban, restrictions on ocean dumping, the preservation of the Highlands, overhaul of the EZ pass system and the NJ Division of Motor Vehicles, and the consolidation of the Turnpike and Parkway. Because of his life’s work, NJ is a better place.
Jamie will also be remembered as a man of integrity who lived by his word, subscribed to an old school code of respect and loyalty, and who made an everlasting imprint on others. Few citizens of NJ have been as widely admired across both sides of the political spectrum. Giving generously of his time, Jamie informed a new generation of political strategists and leaders, sharing with them his insights, counsel and stories – and building through them a lasting legacy. In the last decade, Jamie and his long-time friend, Eric Shuffler, shared a business, River Crossing Strategy Group.
He was a graduate of Saint Patrick High School and a proud graduate of Villanova University.