The mayoral race in Jersey City has narrowed to two prominent candidates, former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey and current Jersey City Councilman James Solomon. The two Democrats will face off in a runoff election scheduled for December 2, 2023, following a recent election in which no candidate secured the required 50% of the vote. Solomon received approximately 29% of the votes, while McGreevey garnered just over 25%, according to the Associated Press.
As the runoff approaches, both candidates have intensified their campaigns. Notably, Solomon has secured endorsements from three former mayoral candidates, positioning himself as the more progressive choice. He has criticized McGreevey for accepting nearly $1 million in contributions from real estate developers, alleging that some of these developers have connections to former President Donald Trump, specifically mentioning Charles Kushner.
In response to these claims, McGreevey rejected the notion that he aligns with Trump’s political agenda. He argued that Solomon has been a councilman during a time when Jersey City has seen significant increases in property taxes and rents. “Under James Solomon’s watch, not one affordable housing unit has been built,” McGreevey stated, emphasizing the need for accountability in local governance.
Key Issues Divide the Candidates
Both candidates have outlined their plans to tackle pressing issues affecting Jersey City. Solomon has committed to making housing more affordable, proposing to build homes with monthly rents under $1,000 and to stabilize property taxes. He asserted, “We need to cap rent increases and ensure that we are building genuinely affordable homes.”
In addition to housing, crime is another central theme in their campaigns. Solomon has promised to hire 100 new police officers and focus on community engagement through increased police presence. “We have a plan to get those officers out on the beat, walking in the communities, building trust,” he said.
Similarly, McGreevey also emphasized the importance of community policing. He mentioned a personal connection to law enforcement through his family, stating, “My grandfather was a police officer, my uncle, and part of it is to walk the beat.”
The Endorsements and Their Impact
Former Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who recently lost in the gubernatorial primary, has not publicly endorsed either candidate but has expressed favorable opinions towards McGreevey. This lack of endorsement may play a significant role in shaping voter perceptions ahead of the runoff.
Additionally, former mayoral candidate Musab Ali has openly criticized McGreevey, referencing his resignation from the governorship in 2004 due to a scandal. McGreevey has attempted to frame his past as part of his journey towards redemption, citing his work with a prison re-entry program and his support from Joyce Watterman, the Jersey City Council President and another former candidate.
As the campaign progresses, voters will need to weigh the candidates’ respective visions for the future of Jersey City against their political histories. The runoff election on December 2 will determine who will lead the city in the coming years.
