NEWARK, N.J. - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), a Rutgers University Law School alumnus, today congratulated Elijah Smith of Newark for his stunning victory Tuesday night in winning the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA) national championship. Smith's victory followed the Rutgers-Newark Debate Team being the #1 ranked-team in CEDA's northeast region for the 2012-13 season.

CLICK HERE for more information about Elijah Smith's championship win.

"For so many reasons, I am thrilled by Elijah Smith's stunning victory in becoming a national champion of cross examination, as well as the performance of the entire Rutgers-Newark Debate Team. Elijah has achieved something truly remarkable through what had to have been a lot of grueling hard work, determination, presence of mind and mental agility, and God-given talent," said Senator Menendez.

"As someone who can appreciate a precise line of questioning as much as a sharp forward pass, I salute Elijah, his teammates and Debate Team Director Christopher Kozak for all they have accomplished. It is my hope that New Jerseyans throughout the state celebrate you as the champions you are. You have done Rutgers University, and the State of New Jersey, tremendously proud. Thank you and congratulations!"

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