The race for Jersey City‘s next mayor isn’t even close to finished. Since no candidate grabbed more than half the vote in last week’s election, we’re headed for a runoff on December 2.
Councilman James Solomon leads with 29% of the vote. He’ll go up against former Governor Jim McGreevey, who has 25.4%.
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This runoff will decide who takes charge of New Jersey’s second-largest city. It’s been one of the most hard-fought political contests around here in a long time.
A Tight Race with Big Stakes
Seven candidates jumped into the November election, which says a lot about how many people want to lead Jersey City. With more than 92% of ballots counted, Hudson County Commissioner Bill O’Dea sits in third place at 21.5%—about 2,200 votes behind McGreevey for a runoff spot.
Other contenders were Mussab Ali, Christina Freeman, Kalki Jayne-Rose, and Council President Joyce Watterman. Now, though, all eyes are on the looming face-off between Solomon and McGreevey.
Solomon’s Call for Change
James Solomon keeps pushing his vision for reform, saying voters sent an “unambiguous message” for change. He paints himself as an independent leader ready to challenge old power structures, especially when comparing himself to McGreevey and what he calls the “corrupt political machine.”
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To plenty of residents, Solomon looks like a fresh start. Folks who want more transparency and ethical government seem drawn to his campaign.
McGreevey’s Bid for a Comeback
Jim McGreevey’s no stranger to the spotlight. He’s a former mayor of Woodbridge and a past New Jersey governor, though he resigned in 2004 after personal and political scandals.
Lately, he’s worked on prisoner reentry and rehabilitation programs, pitching his run for mayor as a way to bring both experience and compassion to city hall. His comeback attempt stirs debate—some people like his record, others stay wary of his political ties.
Why This Matters for Jersey City’s Future
This runoff will steer the future of a city that’s changed a lot over the last decade. Jersey City’s seen booming real estate, new waterfronts, and revived city districts drawing in residents and businesses.
The next mayor faces tough issues: affordable housing, economic growth, transportation, and public safety. The choices made now could echo for years.
The Practical Side: Visiting During Election Season
If you’re curious about local politics or just want to catch the runoff in person, it’s smart to check out top-rated Jersey City hotels. The city’s lively neighborhoods, cool cultural spots, and waterfront views make it a pretty appealing place to visit—whether you’re here for politics or just for fun.
Not sure where to stay in Jersey City? You can pick from luxury towers with Manhattan views or boutique hotels near the arts scene. While you’re here, try some things to do in Jersey City—maybe stroll Liberty State Park or grab some global bites on Newark Avenue.
Travel Tips and Access
Getting to Jersey City’s pretty simple, whether you take the PATH train, hop on a ferry, or drive in on the highway. Its spot next to New York City gives you big-city perks without all the gridlock.
Election signs are popping up on storefronts and community centers all over town. December’s runoff is shaping up to be lively—there’s a buzz of competition that just feels so Jersey City: proud, scrappy, and always looking ahead.
A City at a Crossroads
With the Dec. 2 runoff closing in, Jersey City faces a real turning point. Folks have to pick between Solomon’s reformist push and McGreevey’s experience in leadership.
This choice will ripple through neighborhoods and businesses. It’s not just about politics—every shift here seems to come with its own bold style.
When the winner takes office next year, it’ll mark another chapter in a city that never really sits still. Jersey City keeps adapting, and honestly, that’s what makes it so interesting to watch.
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Here is the source article for this story: James Solomon and Jim McGreevey head to Dec. 2 runoff election for Jersey City mayor
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