Murphy names his pick to lead New Jersey's Treasury

Gov.-elect Phil Murphy says that he is nominating a Democratic assemblywoman to be New Jersey's next treasurer.
Murphy announced Wednesday that Assemblywoman Elizabeth Muoio is his pick for the state's top fiscal job. Muoio represents the 15th Legislative District, which includes parts of Hunterdon and Mercer counties.
Murphy made the announcement in Trenton and was joined by Muoio.
The treasurer is responsible for helping the governor craft New Jersey's budget and also oversees the state's benefits programs, investments, lottery and pensions.
“Our municipalities and their residents need relief. They need to know that taxes can be brought under control. That their infrastructure is sound. That they can count on a quality education for their children no matter where they live,” Muoio said.
A Democrat from Pennington, Muoio serves as the director of economic development for Mercer County. She's a former county freeholder and Pennington Borough Council member.
She holds a law degree from Georgetown and was elected to the Assembly in 2015.
If confirmed by the state Senate, Muoio would succeed Republican Gov. Chris Christie's treasurer, Ford Scudder.
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.