Mercer Times

Acting Governor Way has signed Executive Order No. 370, directing that U.S. and New Jersey flags be flown at half-staff from November 8 to November 10, 2024. This gesture honors the late Speaker Garabed "Chuck" Haytaian, a respected legislator and public servant.

Speaker Haytaian passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 86. He is survived by his brother John; his children David, Debbie, and Darrell; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Before entering politics, Haytaian worked as an engineer on the Lunar Excursion Module at Grumman Aerospace. His political career began in 1975 as a Warren County Freeholder, leading to his election to the New Jersey General Assembly in 1981. He served as Speaker from 1992 to 1996, focusing on tax reform and education initiatives related to teaching about the Holocaust and other genocides.

"Speaker Haytaian was a giant across New Jersey politics," stated Acting Governor Way. "Born to survivors of the Armenian Genocide, Speaker Chuck Haytaian devoted his life to serving the people of New Jersey. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and remain forever grateful for his legacy of service."