Former Democratic New Jersey Governor James McGreevey and Jersey City Councilman James Solomon have advanced to a runoff mayoral race in Jersey City, which is set for December following no candidate securing a majority of votes in the initial election. The nonpartisan race, which initially featured seven candidates, includes McGreevey, a former frontrunner, and Solomon, a city councilman. The mayoral election follows the retirement of longtime Mayor Steven Fulop, who had previously run for governor in 2025. McGreevey’s return to politics marks a significant moment, as he had previously resigned as governor in 2004 following personal and political controversies.
Jersey City, a crucial jurisdiction in the Garden State with a population of nearly 303,000 people, is located directly across the Hudson River from New York City. The mayoral race has drawn attention due to its potential implications for housing and affordability, which are significant issues in a state known nationwide for its sky-high taxes and housing woes. McGreevey campaigned on building 1,000 new affordable homes for city residents and requiring 20% of new developments to be reserved for affordable housing. His return to politics also marks his official re-entry into New Jersey politics, following his resignation in 2004 after revelations of an affair with a male staffer, which led to his resignation and subsequent departure from the public eye.
McGreevey, who is known as the first openly gay governor in U.S. history, has since entered the seminary and focused his attention on faith-based community service. He emphasized his commitment to being a good mayor and addressing the city’s pressing issues. Meanwhile, other candidates such as Bill O’Dea, a Hudson County commissioner and former city councilman, and Solomon, a city councilman, have also put forth their own plans for affordable housing and urban development. The election is watched closely by the state and nation as it highlights ongoing challenges related to affordability and urban governance in a key New Jersey city.