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Sharpe James, Newark’s Longest-Serving Mayor, Dies at 89

The influential and controversial leader shaped Newark’s development over two decades but faced a federal corruption conviction late in his career.

FILE - In this Tuesday, July 29, 2008 file photo, former Newark Mayor Sharpe James, center, leaves the U.S. District Court in Newark, N.J., after he was sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for his role in the cut-rate sales of city land to his former mistress. James, 77, was robbed Thursday, April 11, 2013, put in a chokehold and stripped of a gold chain and cross. He was not injured. (AP Photo/Mike Derer, File)
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Overview

  • Sharpe James, who served as Newark’s mayor for a record 20 years across five terms, passed away Sunday evening at the age of 89, confirmed by his son, John Sharpe James.
  • James was a transformative figure in Newark, spearheading major urban development projects like the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Prudential Center.
  • While serving as mayor, he was also appointed to the New Jersey Senate in 1999, winning two full terms and amplifying his political influence.
  • His career ended in controversy after a 2008 federal corruption conviction for abusing his office, leading to an 18-month prison sentence.
  • Current Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and U.S. Senator Cory Booker, who succeeded James as mayor, reflected on his complex legacy, acknowledging both his contributions and controversies.