Governor hits division in politics
N.J.'s McGreevey set to step down Nov. 15, makes farewell speech
TRENTON, N.J. -- A contrite Governor James E. McGreevey delivered a farewell address yesterday in which he said he does not apologize ''for being a gay American, but rather for having let personal feelings impact my decision-making."
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McGreevey used the speech to list several accomplishments of his administration, but the Democrat also expounded on the soul-searching that has occupied his time since making his stunning resignation announcement three months ago with his wife and parents by his side.
''I am sorry that I have disappointed the citizens of the state of New Jersey who gave me this enormous trust," said McGreevey, whose family did not attend yesterday's speech.
McGreevey is to step down Nov. 15. He resigned over an affair with a man identified as Golan Cipel -- hired by the governor in 2002 to head the state's Homeland Security Department. Cipel has steadfastly denied any involvement with McGreevey and has alleged he was sexually harassed by the governor.
McGreevey highlighted overhauls of the state's child welfare agency, environmental protections, and benefits for domestic partners, but the bulk of the speech focused on his beliefs on what he called the nation's divisive political climate and his inner thoughts about being ''an American who just happens to be gay and proud."
The governor also called for an end to partisan politics and blamed himself for contributing to a climate in which ''we smile in person and then throw each other under the bus when we leave the room."
''I'm not seeking to avoid my own contributions at times to this division," he said. ''The history of America is to expand civil liberties in a responsible and civil manner."
The GOP has criticized McGreevey as staying in office too long after announcing his intention to resign. The decision to remain until Nov. 15 means Senate President Richard Codey, a Democrat, will serve out the final year of McGreevey's term. Had he stepped down immediately, a special election would have been held. 
