[Editor’s note: Pinkin had served for several years as chair of the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee. Her replacement in that position has not yet been named.]

By Nikita Biryukov, NJ Globe

Assemblywoman Nancy Pinkin was sworn in as Middlesex County clerk Thursday, creating an Assembly vacancy Middlesex Democrats will have to fill in the next month.

Pinkin replaces outgoing Clerk Elain Flynn, the longest serving clerk in Middlesex County’s history, who chose to retire rather than seek re-election.

“I look forward to working with Middlesex County over the upcoming years, and I thank you for the privilege to serve as the Middlesex County Clerk,” Pinkin said.

Also sworn in were County Commissioners Leslie Koppel and Charles Tomaro, who served on the board as freeholders. All three were sworn in by County Commission clerk Amy Petrocelli.

Middlesex’s reorganization saw greetings from many of New Jersey’s highest-ranking Democrats: U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-Newark) and Bob Menendez (D-North Bergen), Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-Ewing), Frank Pallone (D-Long Branch), Gov. Phil Murphy, Senate President Steve Sweeney (D-West Deptford) and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Woodbridge).

“To my friend, Nancy Pinkin, congratulations to you as your service as Middlesex County Clerk. This is such an important role, responsibility,” Booker said. “In fact, it is a true honor, but you have proven yourself as such a great leader for our state and our community, and I am grateful you are serving in this important role.”

County Commissioner Ron Rios was again elected to head the board, and Commissioner Kenneth Armwood was elected deputy director.

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