Joseph Azzolina holds a Bachelor of Science in naval science from the College of the Holy Cross and attended the New York University Graduate School of Business. He spent nearly four decades in the U.S. Naval Reserve, retiring as a Captain and earning multiple commendations for his service. Azzolina transitioned his military leadership skills to a political career, serving in both the New Jersey General Assembly and Senate. He also owned and operated The Courier newspaper and held a leadership position in the supermarket industry.

Joseph Azzolina's political career is marked by a blend of military discipline and progressive social policies. His legislative efforts, such as the $250 property tax deduction for veterans, reflect a commitment to supporting military personnel. Meanwhile, Azzolina's creation of a model program in Monmouth County, which utilized specially-trained nurses for sexual assault victims, demonstrates an innovative approach to public safety. His proposal for a central registry of domestic violence offenders further reveals a calculated strategy to address social issues with targeted, authoritative measures.