Race for Governor

 

State Briefing - Deep Dig 

The Race for New Jersey’s Future: A Deep Dig into the 2025 Gubernatorial Candidates

Democratic Candidates

Ras Baraka: The Newark Visionary

Background: Ras Baraka has been involved in Newark’s public life for over three decades, serving as a councilman, principal, and deputy mayor before becoming mayor in 2014; succeeding Cory Booker after his election to the U.S. Senate. 

Key Achievements: Under Baraka’s leadership, Newark has seen a resurgence in development, with billions in investment flowing into the city. His administration championed an inclusionary zoning ordinance to address affordable housing, spearheaded police reform efforts that led to reduced crime rates, and expanded youth and community programs. Additionally, he played a key role in resolving Newark’s lead water crisis by securing state and federal funding to replace thousands of lead service lines at no direct cost to residents.

Controversies: Critics point out that Newark’s progress remains uneven, with persistent challenges in housing affordability and economic disparity.

Platform Highlights: Baraka emphasizes urban revitalization, social justice, and expanded funding for public safety and education.

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Steven Fulop: The Jersey City Revitalizer

Background: Steven Fulop has been Mayor of Jersey City since 2013, overseeing its transformation into one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing cities.

Key Achievements: During his tenure, Fulop has overseen Jersey City’s rapid economic growth, attracting major corporations and fostering a booming real estate market. He expanded affordable housing initiatives, launched progressive policing reforms, and implemented one of the state’s first free pre-K programs. Under his leadership, Jersey City became the first in New Jersey to implement a municipal minimum wage increase for city workers and prioritize green initiatives like bike lanes and urban sustainability projects.

Controversies: While Fulop is credited with Jersey City’s economic boom, critics argue that gentrification has led to rising rents and displacement of long-time residents. His administration has also faced scrutiny over tax abatements given to developers and allegations of favoring corporate interests over local communities. Additionally, a controversy arose over his handling of calls to fire his chief of staff, Mark Albiez, following accusations of misconduct. Fulop’s reluctance to act swiftly on the matter drew criticism from political opponents and community advocates, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in his administration.

Platform Highlights: Focuses on sustainable urban development, transportation infrastructure, and affordable housing while addressing public safety concerns.

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Josh Gottheimer: The Centrist Congressman

Background: U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 5th District since 2017, Gottheimer is a co-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus.

Key Achievements: As a member of Congress, Gottheimer has positioned himself as a pro-business moderate, securing federal funding for infrastructure projects across North Jersey, including major investments in roads, bridges, and broadband expansion. He has played a key role in bipartisan efforts to lower property taxes, protect SALT deductions, and strengthen law enforcement funding. Additionally, as co-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, he has pushed for cross-party cooperation on issues like gun safety, veterans' benefits, and economic relief programs.

Controversies: Some progressives view him as overly moderate, questioning his commitment to more transformative Democratic policies.

Platform Highlights: Focuses on tax reform, middle-class economic growth, and bipartisan collaboration.

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Mikie Sherrill: The Public Servant

Background: Former Navy pilot, federal prosecutor, and U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 11th District since 2018.

Military Service: Flew helicopter missions in the Middle East and Europe, earning accolades for her service and leadership.

Key Achievements: Since entering Congress, Sherrill has been a vocal advocate for veterans’ rights, securing funding for military families and expanding access to mental health services. She has played a key role in securing infrastructure investments for North Jersey, particularly for transportation and flood resilience projects. Sherrill has also championed education reform, supporting increased federal funding for schools and workforce development programs. Additionally, she has worked on bipartisan efforts to lower prescription drug costs and protect reproductive rights.

Platform Highlights: Sherrill emphasizes education, national security, and healthcare affordability.

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Sean Spiller: The NJEA’s Advocate

Background: President of the NJEA and former Mayor of Montclair.

Key Achievements: As president of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), Spiller has been a key figure in securing increased state funding for public schools and advocating for stronger labor protections for teachers. During his tenure as Montclair’s mayor, he navigated pandemic-related challenges, supporting local businesses and implementing public health initiatives. He has also pushed for policies aimed at reducing educational disparities and expanding resources for students and educators across the state.

Controversies: Spiller has faced criticism over potential conflicts of interest due to his dual role as NJEA president and mayor of Montclair. Some opponents argued that his position in the teachers' union created ethical concerns when negotiating school funding and education policies at the local level. Additionally, his handling of Montclair’s school reopening process during the COVID-19 pandemic sparked tensions with parents and educators. Additionally, Spiller’s administration came under scrutiny following a whistleblower lawsuit in which a former township official alleged retaliation for reporting misconduct. The lawsuit resulted in a settlement, with the woman receiving $250,000 and Montclair taxpayers footing a $1 million bill. Critics have pointed to the case as an example of mismanagement and a lack of transparency within his administration.

Platform Highlights: Education, labor rights, and equitable funding remain central to Spiller’s agenda.

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Stephen Sweeney: The Legislative Veteran

Background: Former State Senate President with decades of legislative experience.

Key Achievements: As New Jersey’s longest-serving Senate President, Sweeney played a key role in shaping the state’s budget and pension reform efforts. He was a driving force behind the state’s minimum wage increase, the expansion of paid family leave, and funding for major infrastructure projects like the Gateway Tunnel. Sweeney also spearheaded education funding reform and was instrumental in securing additional resources for New Jersey’s vocational schools and special education programs.

Controversies: Sweeney faced backlash for skipping a Democratic National Convention (DNC) breakfast sponsored by PSEG, which had financially supported a Republican congressman accused of making anti-LGBTQ+ remarks. Critics also accused him of being too closely aligned with South Jersey’s powerful political machine, particularly with Democratic powerbroker George Norcross. Additionally, his support for public worker pension and benefits reforms put him at odds with public-sector unions, leading to tensions with organized labor despite his pro-worker reputation. His stunning 2021 election loss to a virtually unknown truck driver, Edward Durr, was widely seen as a referendum on his leadership and his perceived disconnect from working-class voters.

Platform Highlights: Fiscal reform, infrastructure, and labor protections are Sweeney’s focus.

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Republican Candidates

Jack Ciattarelli: The Veteran Challenger

Background: Former State Assemblyman and 2021 Republican gubernatorial nominee.

Key Achievements: Advocated for property tax reform and healthcare cost reduction.

Platform Highlights: Tax cuts, small government, and improved public safety remain Ciattarelli’s priorities.

Controversies: DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Stance: Ciattarelli has voiced skepticism about mandatory DEI initiatives, arguing they can lead to divisiveness rather than unity. He supports merit-based systems and voluntary diversity programs instead.

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Jon Bramnick: The Moderate Voice

Background: State Senator known for his bipartisan work.

Key Achievements: Bramnick has built a reputation as a moderate Republican willing to work across the aisle, particularly on infrastructure improvements and healthcare policy. As the former Assembly Minority Leader, he advocated for tax relief for middle-class families and small businesses, while also pushing for bipartisan solutions on property tax reform. He has been a strong proponent of ethics and transparency in government, sponsoring legislation aimed at increasing accountability for public officials. Additionally, he has championed efforts to improve public safety, including supporting measures to combat gun violence while maintaining a balance with Second Amendment rights.

Bipartisanship: Frequently collaborated with Democrats on infrastructure and healthcare policies.

Platform Highlights: Public safety, fiscal stability, and cross-party collaboration.

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Edward Durr: The Outsider

Background: Former truck driver and state senator.

Controversies: Durr’s staunch Trump support and inflammatory social media posts, including dismissing the January 6th riots as “peaceful,” have sparked criticism.

Platform Highlights: Fiscal conservatism and strong border security. Durr champions small government, fiscal conservatism, and strong border security.

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Bill Spadea: The Firebrand

Background: Conservative radio host and outspoken Trump supporter with a strong grassroots following.

Key Achievements:

Grassroots Mobilization: Built a strong conservative base in New Jersey through his radio show and political activism, using his platform to challenge establishment politicians from both parties.

Opposition to COVID-19 Mandates: Led protests against lockdowns, mask mandates, and vaccine requirements, positioning himself as a champion of personal freedom and government accountability.

Education Advocacy: Vocal advocate for parental rights in schools, supporting curriculum transparency and opposing policies he views as promoting political agendas in classrooms.

Tax and Small Business Advocacy: Frequently criticizes high taxes and government regulations, advocating for tax cuts and business-friendly policies to boost economic growth.

Controversies:

Inflammatory Rhetoric: Spadea has drawn criticism for his aggressive stance against public health measures during the pandemic, calling them “tyranny” and accusing officials of fear-mongering.

Education Culture Wars: He has repeatedly claimed that schools are being used to “indoctrinate” students with “woke ideologies,” sparking backlash from educators and progressive groups.

Conspiracy Allegations: Critics argue that Spadea has entertained conspiracy theories related to election integrity and COVID-19 policies, though he maintains that his positions reflect legitimate concerns over government overreach.

Platform Highlights: Spadea’s platform focuses on lower taxes, parental control in education, and defending individual freedoms.

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Acorn of the Day

The 2025 gubernatorial race showcases a diverse field, offering voters a range of ideologies and priorities. As New Jersey faces economic challenges, public safety concerns, and debates over affordability, this election will determine the state’s trajectory for years to come.

By James Dargan, The Daily Squirrel

Reporting supported by ChatGPT’s research and editorial insights.

For Inquiries, thedailysquirrelnews@gmail.com