Newark Politicans Urge Caution on UMDNJ-Rutgers Merger

Officials in Newark say it's important that the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey remains a major presence in the city if the school is merged into Rutgers University.

Mayor Cory Booker, State Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver and other local officials held a news conference Friday to express their concerns over the consequences of a merger.

They say that they want a careful review process of the merger plan and will oppose any changes to the school that hurt the city's economy.

Gov. Chris Christie wants to fold UMDNJ's New Brunswick-based schools into Rutgers. He's asked for more study on what that would mean for UMDNJ's schools and hospital in Newark. Recommendations are due next month.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)