Gov. Chris Christie this afternoon announced his decision to enter Newark into the running for the citing of Amazon, and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka subsequently expressed his satisfaction in a statement.

“I am grateful and the people of Newark are grateful for the Governor’s support of Newark’s bid, which is right for our City and right for the State of New Jersey,” Baraka said in a statement. “Now, Newark’s momentum is unstoppable. Amazon can be a powerful partner in helping to forge our future. From our data infrastructure, which offers cutting-edge bandwidth and the fastest internet speeds to our unmatched logistical infrastructure with trains, roads, rails, airports, and seaport – we can help Amazon move its people and products like no other city can.

“Unquestionably, Newark has all that Amazon seeks including something that’s not listed on the RFP, but which is at the core of social responsibility that the company is known for: the opportunity to accelerate the transformation of a great American City that is already experiencing enormous progress. It’s time to say, ‘Yes, It’s Newark.’”