(09/18/06) TRENTON ? State attorney general nominee Stuart Rabner answered questions from a Senate panel Monday with little controversy and lots of praise.

Unlike the contentious hearings for former Attorney General Zulima Farber, Republicans and Democrats alike applauded Rabner?s record and character. Former New Jersey Governor Richard Codey called Rabner a man of impeccable character. Rabner told panel members he plans to focus on corruption if approved for the job. According to the nominee, sentences for political corruption need to be made tougher and longer.

The panel unanimously approved Rabner. Now, he must get the full Senate?s approval before getting the job. Rabner?s nomination was made on the heels of former Attorney General Zulima Farber?s resignation. She left office amid ethics questions after she visited the scene of her boyfriend?s traffic stop in an official vehicle.

Related information: Attorney General Zulima Farber resigns amid traffic stop scandal