A group of black New Jersey legislators has declared its opposition to Gov. Chris Christie's choice of a gay, black Republican for the Supreme Court.

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The Legislative Black Caucus tells The Associated Press that Attorney Bruce Harris' legal qualifications fall short of the high standard required of the court's seven justices.

No blacks currently sit on the court.

Christie failed to reappoint the only black justice in 2010, touching off a firestorm among Democrats. Justice John Wallace had two years to go before reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

The black lawmakers oppose the 61-year-old Harris' confirmation because of his lack of judicial and litigation experience and his failure to make partner at any law firm.

Christie's other recent nominee, Phillip Kwon, was rejected by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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