From the Star-Ledger’s feature today on the waning of NJEA’s influence:

It was the latest example of how the NJEA has long flexed its political muscle. But it was far from the first. One of the most expensive demonstrations of the union’s clout came in the summer of 2008, as Corzine was preparing to run for re-election. After the Legislature adopted controversial pension reforms over the objections of the NJEA and other public-workers unions, Corzine intentionally held off on enacting the package because the NJEA insisted it needed more time to notify its members.

Even Democratic allies of the governor were livid at the maneuver, given the tough fight they endured to pass the measure. But Corzine, standing in the arena where Barack Obama was given the Democratic presidential nomination, said he had no problem going along with the NJEA’s request.