Arthur Harry Moore

Overview

Arthur Harry Moore was a Democratic leader and the only person in New Jersey history elected governor three times. A close ally of Jersey City political boss Frank Hague, Moore blended machine-backed politics with a pragmatic populism that guided the state through periods of growth and depression in the early 20th century. He uniquely served three non-consecutive terms as Governor of New Jersey (1926–1929, 1932–1935, 1938–1941) — the only person in the state’s history to do so.

Early Life and Education

Born in Jersey City, Moore grew up in modest circumstances, worked as a teacher and city clerk, and studied at Cooper Union before earning a law degree from New Jersey Law School. His early civic involvement rooted him deeply in the life of his hometown.

Political Career

Moore began in Jersey City government and, with Hague’s organizational support, rose rapidly within the Democratic Party.

He served his first gubernatorial term (1926–1929) focusing on education and infrastructure, returned during the Great Depression (1932–1935) to expand relief programs, and served again (1938–1941) to stabilize state finances and launch further public-works initiatives.

Governorship Highlights

• Expanded road and bridge construction and other public-works projects
• Strengthened education funding and social relief programs
• Promoted fiscal discipline while maintaining cooperation with federal New Deal programs
• Balanced Hague’s political influence with broad public support across the state

Later Life and Legacy

After his final term, Moore served as a U.S. Senator (1943–1949). He died in 1952 in Branchville, New Jersey.

Remembered as both a product and master of the Jersey City machine, Moore’s long career reflected the intersection of urban politics and progressive governance in New Jersey’s modernization era.