Chances are we won't be using the term "freeholder' to refer to the elected officials who run county government much longer in New Jersey. Governor Murphy, Senate President Steve Sweeny and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin are all backing legislation that would require changing the term "Freeholder" to "County Commissioner." Yesterday, Governor Murphy tweeted: "As our nation tears down symbols of injustice, lets us tear down words born from racism. Proud to stand with NJSenatePres and SpeakerCoughlin to phase out the word "freeholder"- coined when only white male land owners could hold office." The word "freeholder" actually dates back to England in the 1600's. Back then the word meant someone who owns property that is free from a mortgage or lien. Freeholders owned their property free from debt. The term was carried over and included in New Jersey's first Constitution 244 years ago in 1776. Back then only white men and women could own property. New Jersey is the only state that still uses the word "Freeholder." In neighboring Pennsylvania "County Commissioner" is used. In New York State there are county legislatures and a county executive.
Source: NJ.COM