Dr. Raynard E. Washington, interim commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Health, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 12 regarding his nomination to serve as commissioner.
Washington said that serving in this role is both an honor and a serious responsibility, emphasizing that every decision made impacts the health and well-being of New Jersey residents. He thanked his supporters, including family members and department staff, with special mention to his mother for her influence on his career path.
Drawing from personal experiences growing up in Richmond, Virginia, Washington described how witnessing health challenges within his own family shaped his commitment to public health. He recounted volunteering at a community hospital during high school and a formative summer spent in Tanzania during a severe malaria outbreak, which led him to pursue epidemiology and public service rather than clinical medicine.
Washington outlined his professional background, including roles in Philadelphia as deputy health commissioner and chief epidemiologist during the opioid epidemic, and leadership positions in Charlotte through the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed the importance of visible public health leadership: “We must meet people where they are, listen to their experiences, and build trust. That is how policy becomes real progress,” he said.
He detailed the broad mandate of the New Jersey Department of Health—ranging from food safety to disease surveillance—and highlighted ongoing efforts to address immediate threats such as infectious diseases ahead of major events like the FIFA World Cup. Washington also addressed persistent disparities in maternal and infant mortality rates among Black mothers and babies compared to white counterparts in New Jersey, calling these differences unacceptable but often preventable.
Mental health was another focus area; Washington expressed pride that the department leads efforts under Governor Sherrill’s administration to strengthen youth mental health initiatives. He underscored concerns about healthcare affordability and warned about federal Medicaid cuts threatening essential services for vulnerable populations.
Concluding his testimony, Washington reaffirmed commitment to evidence-based strategies: “Despite these challenges, we will remain committed to our mission of protecting the health of New Jerseyans.” He called for strong partnerships with legislators to ensure equitable health outcomes across all communities.
