On Tuesday, a notable event took place in Camden, New Jersey, which marked the beginning of a monumental $3 billion expansion of Cooper University Hospital.
Nevertheless, the day also highlighted the political influence of George Norcross, a powerful South Jersey Democratic figure, who is currently facing serious legal trouble.
Norcross, the hospital’s chairman and a longtime political dealmaker, has been indicted on charges related to corruption and racketeering.
Yet, his presence at the groundbreaking ceremony was nothing short of celebratory, as he was praised by a surprising lineup of political heavyweights, including five former New Jersey governors and TV personality Kelly Ripa.
At the event, amid plans for Cooper’s 10-story expansion, political allies and even some critics came together to acknowledge Norcross’s role in Camden’s revitalization.
The governors in attendance included current Governor Phil Murphy, along with former Governors Chris Christie, Jon Corzine, Jim McGreevey, and Tom Kean.
Despite the legal trouble surrounding Norcross, political leaders from both parties didn’t hold back in praising his impact on Camden, especially his role in expanding Cooper University Hospital.
Governor Murphy, who has historically clashed with Norcross, even acknowledged that only someone with Norcross’ influence could have brought together such a diverse group of political figures.
“There’s only one guy in this state who could pull this group together,” Murphy said, emphasizing the turnaround Camden had experienced under Norcross’ leadership.
The new hospital expansion, dubbed “Project Imagine,” will feature various improvements, including 745 new private inpatient beds, expanded surgical capacity, and an advanced medical command center.
The first phase of the project involves a 35,000-square-foot, 10-story tower set to be completed by 2028.
The state is contributing a $170 million grant to help fund this growth.
While the ceremony celebrated Cooper’s growth, it also brought attention to the controversy surrounding Norcross.
The charges against him—alleging he used his political influence to land lucrative real estate deals in Camden—have sent shockwaves through Camden, NJ, politics.
Still, his legal troubles didn’t seem to dampen the celebratory tone of the event.
Instead, the five former governors and several other political figures, including U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer and former state Senate President Steve Sweeney, stood in solidarity with Norcross and praised his contributions to the city’s turnaround.
Notably, former Governor Chris Christie, a one-time U.S. Attorney, voiced his strong opposition to the charges against Norcross, calling the indictment “a piece of garbage” and suggesting that it lacked merit.
Christie’s remarks were a stark contrast to those of progressive critics, who have long opposed Norcross’ influence in the state.
These critics, including Antoinette Miles of the New Jersey Working Families Party, voiced their disapproval of the ceremony, arguing that it was an attempt to clean up Norcross’ image while his legal case is still pending.
TV host Kelly Ripa, a Camden County native and close family friend of the Norcrosses, added a touch of light-heartedness to the event.
Ripa, whose parents met at Cooper University Hospital, has long been a vocal supporter of the institution.
During the event, she reminisced about her family’s connection to the hospital and promised to host a “disco” party for the hospital staff in gratitude for their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Following the groundbreaking, Ripa and Norcross joined forces to host the party, complete with 1970s dance tunes and red velvet cupcakes, to show appreciation for Cooper’s medical team.
The day wasn’t without controversy, however. Some pointed to the gathering of so many influential figures as an indication of Norcross’s deep connections and political leverage in New Jersey.
Critics have long accused Norcross of using his power to further his personal and business interests, particularly through his control over state tax credits and real estate deals.
While his influence may be contested, his role in shaping Camden’s future remains undeniable, especially as the city moves toward a new era of growth and development.
