The December 2, 2025 runoff election for Jersey City mayor is shaping up to be a wild, consequential political showdown. Former New Jersey Governor James McGreevey will square off against Jersey City Councilman James Solomon after neither hit the 51% mark in November’s general election.
Housing, public safety, education, and transparency are front and center. People across all city districts are watching, waiting to see which vision ends up steering Jersey City’s future.
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Historic Runoff Election
This race stands out for more than its razor-thin margins. It’s the first mayoral runoff here since 2001.
In the general, Solomon led with 29%, McGreevey trailed at 25%, and the rest was split among five others. The runoff format means whoever wins will have to earn broader support, since everyone’s got to head back to the polls for a final say.
Political Background and Party Alignment
Even though the election’s technically nonpartisan, both candidates are Democrats. So, no matter what, a Democrat will keep the city’s top job, continuing a long tradition here.
This race follows Mayor Steven Fulop’s decision not to seek a fourth term—he’s running for governor instead. The timing feels crucial, with Jersey City at a crossroads for growth and infrastructure.
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The Candidates and Their Platforms
Both candidates bring their own style and priorities, giving voters a real choice for the next four years.
James McGreevey: Emphasis on Fundamentals
McGreevey, now leading the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, is running on a back-to-basics message: cleaner streets, safer neighborhoods, better schools. He’s betting on practical improvements—things people can see and feel every day.
He’s got endorsements from Gov. Phil Murphy, Council President Joyce Watterman, and Hudson County Executive Craig Guy. These could really help him turn out voters when it matters most.
James Solomon: Reform and Accountability
Solomon, elected to the City Council in 2017, calls himself a reformer. He’s made a lot of noise about dismantling “machine politics” and demanding more transparency from City Hall.
His campaign zeroes in on housing affordability, police reform, education, and traffic headaches. Endorsements from U.S. Senator Andrew Kim, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and Hudson County Commissioner William O’Dea show he’s building momentum among progressives.
Key Issues on the Ballot
This runoff isn’t just about personalities. The policies at stake could shape daily life for years.
- Housing Affordability: Making sure new development doesn’t push out longtime residents.
- Police Reform: More accountability and a shift toward community-focused safety.
- Education: Stronger public schools and better access to resources.
- Traffic Congestion: Creative fixes for ever-worsening traffic and transit issues.
- Government Transparency: Clearer communication and easier access to how decisions get made.
How This Impacts Jersey City Residents
The mayor elected in December could end up shaping everything from local development to cultural events. Whether you’re visiting, thinking about where to stay in Jersey City, or just living here, the next mayor’s choices will probably affect neighborhood vibes, small business growth, and how easy it is to get around.
City leadership also influences how tourism meshes with daily life, which could change the scene for Jersey City hotels and hospitality businesses.
Looking Ahead and Getting Involved
Community engagement in this election really matters. If you’re wondering about getting to Jersey City to vote or join in on events, you’ve got plenty of public transit and highway options that make it pretty easy.
As voters weigh platforms, endorsements, and track records, they’re also thinking about how policies might boost things to do in Jersey City. Arts, culture, outdoor hangouts, and food scenes are all on people’s minds.
The December runoff feels like a turning point. The choice between McGreevey’s focus on operational basics and Solomon’s push for reform could set the tone for what’s next in Jersey City.
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Here is the source article for this story: James McGreevey and James Solomon are running in the runoff election for mayor of Jersey City on Dec. 2
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