The race to become the next mayor of Jersey City just got a whole lot more interesting. Former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey and current City Councilman James Solomon are heading for a runoff election on December 2, 2025.
Outgoing Mayor Steven Fulop is stepping aside to run for governor, so the city’s leadership is up for grabs. McGreevey and Solomon couldn’t be more different, each bringing their own vision for New Jersey’s second-largest city.
Easy booking across hundreds of accommodations from luxury high-rises to unearthed brownstone treasures.
Browse Accommodations Now
This runoff happened because New Jersey law requires it when no one in a crowded field gets more than 50% of the vote. Seven people ran this year, so it’s not surprising nobody cleared that bar.
Now, residents are gearing up to head back to the polls on December 2 to make the final call.
How the Runoff Came About
Jersey City’s system says you need a majority to win outright. With seven candidates splitting the votes, reaching that threshold was a tall order.
So, the city gets a runoff—pretty straightforward, but it always adds a twist.
Fulop’s Departure and the Competitive Field
Mayor Steven Fulop deciding not to seek a fourth term set the stage for this. He’s got his eye on the governor’s office instead, which really shook things up for the local scene.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
With Fulop out, there’s a real sense of competition. Both McGreevey and Solomon are clearly hungry for the job.
Profiles of the Candidates
Jim McGreevey isn’t new to public service. He served as New Jersey’s governor from 2002 until his resignation in 2004, which followed personal revelations—he publicly came out as a gay American.
McGreevey was born in Jersey City and moved back in 2015 after a long break from elected office. This is his first run for office since stepping down as governor.
James Solomon
James Solomon brings a different vibe—a newer generation, really. He joined the Jersey City Council in 2017, focusing on affordable housing, education, and curbing the sway of big developers.
- Affordable housing
- Investments in education
- Reducing the influence of big-name developers on city policy
He’s worked as an aide to Boston’s mayor and battled Hodgkin’s Lymphoma—experiences that seem to have shaped his push for transparency and reform.
What’s at Stake for Jersey City
The December runoff will decide who’ll lead a city that’s growing fast but facing some real challenges. Jersey City boasts diverse neighborhoods, a booming economy, and plenty of culture.
The next mayor has to juggle development, infrastructure, and public services. It’s a tough balance—keeping the city’s momentum without losing what makes it special.
Impact on Residents and Visitors
Whether you’ve lived here forever or you’re just checking out where to stay in Jersey City, this election matters. Decisions on development, safety, and transportation will shape neighborhoods and even what you find at Jersey City hotels.
Tying It Back to the Local Fabric
If you’re planning out things to do in Jersey City, leadership really does make a difference. The mayor decides how to spend public money, support the arts, and keep the city’s districts unique.
Whatever happens in this runoff, places like Journal Square, Bergen-Lafayette, and the Heights will feel the effects.
Planning Ahead
For out-of-town guests, getting to Jersey City is easier than ever now. Improved transit links and the city’s close proximity to New York City help a lot.
If you show up around runoff time, you might catch a real glimpse of democracy in action. Campaign signs pop up everywhere, and political chatter fills the air—kind of hard to miss, honestly.
As Election Day gets closer, folks keep watching McGreevey and Solomon. These two have pretty different political backgrounds, but both want to steer Jersey City forward.
Find the perfect hotel or vacation rental. Instant booking, no fees!
View Top Stays
Here is the source article for this story: Jersey City election results: Solomon, McGreevey advance to runoff
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
