One of the major
political power brokers in North Jersey over the past 40 years, Steve Adubato
Sr., has died. He was 87.
Adubato Sr. founded a powerful political machine in the North Ward Center in the 1960s,
influencing races and candidates at the city, county and state levels.
Adubato Sr. also founded Newark's North Ward Center 50 years
ago, providing services to thousands of residents.
Adubato is survived by his wife Fran and three children,
including News 12 Plus colleague Steve Adubato Jr.
Tributes to Adubato are pouring in from policy
makers across the state. Senate President Steve Sweeney said today Adubato was
"an extraordinary man.” Gov. Phil
Murphy said Newark's rising is "a testament to his dedication."
Former Gov. Chris
Christie tweeted, “He was a tireless fighter for quality
education through his Robert Treat Academy charter school & no one cared
more about Newark, NJ or its people. God bless Steve and his family."
Essex County
Executive Joe Divincenzo said on
Facebook, “I have known Steve
for well over 40 years. He was a mentor for me when I worked at The North Ward
Center and when I entered government. Today
is a sad day because we have lost a visionary, a father, a leader and, most of
all, a very dear friend."