Progressive James Solomon wins against McGreevey in Jersey City mayoral election

Progressive City Councilman James Solomon is projected to win Jersey Citys mayoral contest, surpassing former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey, according to Decision Desk HQ. Solomon defeated McGreevey in the runoff on Tuesday, following an initial November election where neither candidate reached the 50 percent threshold, with Solomon finishing first and McGreevey second.

The election sought a successor to current Mayor Steve Fulop, who chose to pursue the governorship instead, ultimately losing in the Democratic primary to Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill. The November contest featured a total of seven candidates vying for the mayoral seat, with Solomon and McGreevey emerging as the top two contenders.

Solomons victory represents a notable political setback for McGreevey, who resigned as governor in 2004 after publicly acknowledging an extramarital relationship with a man, Golan Cipel, his former homeland security adviser. At the time, Cipel accused McGreevey of sexual harassment, which McGreeveys legal team denied, calling the claims false and asserting the relationship was consensual. Both parties reportedly considered a financial settlement prior to McGreeveys public announcement.

The Jersey City race has drawn comparisons to the New York City mayoral election, where Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani faced former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who resigned amid sexual harassment allegations. McGreevey focused his campaign on the theme of redemption, acknowledging past mistakes while highlighting his post-office work in prison ministry. In campaign materials, he stated, Im imperfect, and Ill always be imperfect. It was important to take accountability, to do the next right thing. It was painful, but its made me a better, more compassionate person.

Despite this message, McGreevey faced criticism from opponents regarding his prior scandal and campaign funding, including contributions from U.S. Ambassador to France and New Jersey developer Charles Kushner.

Both candidates emphasized housing affordability in their campaigns, although they drew support from different party factions. Solomon received endorsements from progressive leaders such as Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Newark Mayor Ras Baraka (D), and Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.), known for challenging New Jerseys political establishment. McGreevey was backed by Governor Phil Murphy (D), Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.), and local police unions.

Solomons projected win signifies a significant moment in Jersey City politics, marking the rise of a progressive leader while underscoring the challenges faced by a former governor attempting a political comeback.

Author: Sophia Brooks