The political spotlight swings back to Hudson County this week. Jersey City voters are heading to the polls for a high-stakes runoff that’ll decide the city’s next mayor.
No candidate managed a majority in November’s general election. Now, Councilman James Solomon and former Gov. Jim McGreevey face off in a direct contest that could shape the city’s policies and priorities for years.
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Why Jersey City Is Heading to a Runoff Election
Jersey City’s municipal races are technically nonpartisan, but they’re never low-key. In the Nov. 4 general election, a crowded field split the vote, so nobody cracked 50% support.
Local rules call for a runoff between the top two candidates. James Solomon, a councilman first elected in 2017, led with about 29% of the vote.
Former Gov. Jim McGreevey followed with roughly 25%. The rest of the votes went to candidates who’ve since endorsed Solomon, while Council President Joyce Watterman is backing McGreevey.
Turnout, Timing, and What’s at Stake
Jersey City has about 170,000 registered voters. Only around 38% turned out for the general election.
No early in-person voting is available for this runoff. Everything hinges on turnout this Tuesday, with polls closing at 8 p.m. ET.
The Associated Press will wait to call the race until the numbers are clear. Recounts almost never happen in New Jersey, since campaigns usually have to pay unless the outcome flips.
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Meet the Candidates: Solomon vs. McGreevey
Both candidates are Democrats, but their backgrounds and styles couldn’t be more different. Voters are weighing experience, character, and vision—maybe even the city’s identity itself.
James Solomon: Reform-Minded and Data-Driven
James Solomon built his reputation on good-government reform and transparency. Since joining the council in 2017, he’s leaned on experience working with big-city mayors and urban policy experts.
He often shares his story of beating Hodgkin’s lymphoma, tying it to themes of resilience and service. Solomon’s support from several eliminated candidates hints at a coalition of voters who want to keep Jersey City’s recent progressive streak alive—think tighter ethics, careful development, and a focus on livability.
Jim McGreevey: Comeback Story and Second Chances
Jim McGreevey’s name is known statewide, even nationally. He resigned as governor in 2004 after a scandal, something voters still remember.
Since then, he’s shifted to advocacy, especially for people reentering society after incarceration or battling addiction. His campaign leans on his government experience and deep network in Trenton and beyond.
Council President Joyce Watterman’s endorsement signals support from parts of the city’s power structure. McGreevey argues that a fast-growing city needs a seasoned operator in charge.
The Money Race: Campaign Spending in Focus
This runoff has become a story about money, too. Campaign finance reports reveal a wide gap between the finalists, showing just how much is at stake.
McGreevey Outspends Solomon Nearly Two-to-One
McGreevey has poured about $2.5 million into the race, nearly twice Solomon’s $1.3 million. That cash has funded a wave of mailers, digital ads, and a field operation designed to reach every possible supporter.
Solomon’s campaign has had to be more targeted, relying on grassroots organizing and volunteers. Residents are seeing a steady stream of mail, door-knocks, and phone calls—a constant reminder that every vote could tip the scales.
Why This Election Matters for Jersey City’s Future
This election is really about what kind of big city Jersey City wants to be. The winner will shape how the city handles development, property taxes, public safety, transit, and quality-of-life issues across all its neighborhoods.
From Ballots to Neighborhoods and Businesses
This runoff comes at a moment when Jersey City is more visible than ever. People browsing Jersey City hotels or looking up things to do in Jersey City keep getting pulled in by the city’s arts scene, those waterfront views, and the endless restaurant corridors.
The next mayor will have a real say in how these attractions grow. They’ll also face the challenge of protecting neighborhoods from displacement and making sure infrastructure keeps up with the city’s rising population and steady stream of tourists.
If you’re new and wondering where to stay in Jersey City, or maybe a commuter figuring out getting to Jersey City from New York, the mayor’s calls on transit, zoning, and safety will absolutely shape your first impressions.
For folks who’ve lived here forever, the stakes feel even bigger. They’re thinking about schools, affordable housing, walkable streets, and honestly, just wanting a city government that listens for once.
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Here is the source article for this story: AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Jersey City’s mayoral runoff election
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