Christie Nominates Gay Man to N.J. Supreme Court

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie on Monday nominated Bruce Harris to the state's Supreme Court.

Harris would become the first openly LGBT justice--and third African American person--to serve on the court. Chatham voters in November elected Harris to become their borough's next mayor. He is the first black gay Republican in the country to hold such an office.

Christie's announcement comes a day before state lawmakers will hold a hearing on a bill that would allow same-sex couples to marry in the Garden State. He has repeatedly said he veto a marriage equality bill, but Garden State Equality Chair Steven Goldstein applauded the governor's nomination of Harris.

"Today, the governor has made civil rights history, and on behalf of all of us at Garden State Equality, I extend to him our most profound appreciation," he said.

R. Clarke Cooper, executive director of Log Cabin Republicans, also applauded Christie for his historic nomination.

“This appointment is consistent with Gov. Christie’s strong support for nondiscrimination, including signing the strongest anti-bullying legislation in the nation," he said. "As the New Jersey legislature considers passing marriage equality this session, Log Cabin Republicans remain hopeful Governor Christie will continue his inclusive leadership by agreeing with Republican champions across the country that freedom means freedom for everybody.”