Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission has announced the appointment of four new members: Senator Anthony Bucco, Dr. Thomas Ortiz, Councilman Ruben Ramos, and Miguel Melendez. The appointments, made by both the Governor’s Office and the State Senate, aim to bolster the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between New Jersey and Puerto Rico.

Established under the Murphy Administration, the bi-partisan Commission focuses on supporting economic development, cultural exchanges, and disaster recovery efforts on the island while also advocating for the Puerto Rican community in New Jersey.

“I would like to extend my congratulations to Senator Anthony Bucco, Dr. Thomas Ortiz, Councilman Ruben Ramos, and Miguel Melendez on their appointments to the New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Each of them has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to service. I am confident they will bring these qualities to the Commission.”

The Commission, co-chaired by Peggy Anastos and Jose Lozano, consists of 35 members with expertise in government, business, healthcare, and community leadership.

The new appointees bring a wealth of experience in politics, healthcare, business, and veterans’ advocacy. Senator Bucco has served in the New Jersey Senate since 2019 and is the current Senate Republican Leader. A lawyer specializing in local government law, he has an extensive history of public service, including leadership roles in addiction recovery and community safety programs. Miguel Melendez, an executive and entrepreneur, has led business growth initiatives across industries and is a passionate advocate for veterans’ affairs. He serves on the Latino Veterans of New Jersey board and has worked extensively in youth mentorship. Councilman Ruben Ramos, a longtime Hoboken public servant, has experience at both the local and state levels, previously serving in the New Jersey General Assembly. He is also a social studies teacher and a cancer survivor, advocating for healthcare and education initiatives. Dr. Thomas R. Ortiz, a board-certified family physician, has dedicated his career to public health and expanding healthcare access for vulnerable populations. He is the Medical Director for the Center of Excellence for Latino Health at Clara Maass Medical Center and has led efforts to strengthen healthcare outreach within Latino communities.

The appointments come as the Commission continues its work on hurricane recovery, economic development, and education partnerships.

“Having worked closely with many of the new appointees, I am excited to officially welcome them to the Commission,” said Chair Peggy Anastos. “Their expertise and talent will enhance our efforts to improve the lives of New Jerseyans and Puerto Ricans.”

New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way also praised the appointments, stating that the new members’ dedication to New Jersey will help advance the Commission’s work both in the Garden State and on the Island.