David Samson, Former Port Authority Executive Who Left in Wake of George Washington Bridge Scandal, Retires From Powerful Law Firm

A longtime associate of Gov. Chris Christie who left a high-ranking post at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in the wake of the George Washington Bridge scandal is retiring from one of New Jersey's most powerful law firms.

The Wolff & Samson firm announced Tuesday that founding partner David Samson will be leaving later this month. He is 75 years old.

"For personal, professional and health reasons I have made the decision to retire," Samson said in a statement. "After my five decades practicing law, it was time for new leaders to transition the Firm for the future."

Samson, the former chairman of the Port Authority, has been the focus of criminal investigations over his activities while in that post. His alleged mixing of his public office and private business interests has been the focus of subpoenas in the federal investigation into Christie's appointees.

A firm spokesman said Samson has been planning his retirement for some time.

The firm also announced that Jeff Chiesa, a former U.S. Senator and state attorney general, has been promoted to a new leadership role. The firm is also being renamed. 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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