McGreevey portrait hung at Statehouse

More than two years after announcing that he was gay and would resign, former Gov. James McGreevey returned to the Statehouse for the unveiling of his official portrait Tuesday in an event devoid of the usual fanfare.

It was McGreevey's first visit to the Capitol since he stepped down. He said Tuesday's unveiling helped close a chapter of his life.

"It represents a final obligation," said McGreevey, 49.

Unveilings of governor's portraits are usually well-attended affairs open to the public. But this was a private event. No formal invitations were issued, Gov. Jon Corzine'ss office did not announce it in advance, and no refreshments were served.

McGreevey said he did not want to publicize the event.

He was joined for the unveiling by his male partner, his parents and Corzine. McGreevey is separated from his wife and lives with his partner.

McGreevey announced his resignation on national television in August 2004, declaring that he was "a gay American." He said he had had a gay affair with a staffer, later identified as Golan Cipel, McGreevey's homeland security adviser.

Cipel has denied an affair took place and claims the governor sexually harassed him.

The portrait depicts McGreevey in his office at the governor's residence in Princeton.