Who’s Running For NJ Governor? First Gubernatorial Primary Debate Kicks Off

nj laws 2025

Who’s Running For NJ Governor? First Gubernatorial Primary Debate Kicks Off

nj laws 2025

Staff

Six Democratic candidates vying to succeed Gov. Phil Murphy took the stage Sunday for the first debate of New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial race. The discussion, held at Rider University, focused on state infrastructure, affordability, and immigration policy.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Rep. Josh Gottheimer clashed over immigration. Baraka criticized Gottheimer for supporting the Laken Riley Act, which toughens immigration enforcement. “You can’t say you support immigrants and don’t support the immigration trust bill in New Jersey,” Baraka said. Gottheimer defended his stance, arguing that undocumented immigrants who commit crimes “shouldn’t be here.”

The candidates gave low marks to New Jersey Transit, citing unreliable service and outdated infrastructure. Rep. Mikie Sherrill pointed to her efforts to secure federal funding for rail improvements, while other candidates called for expanded rail service in South Jersey and the cancellation of the New Jersey Turnpike widening project.

Affordability remained a central issue. Gottheimer pushed for more federal funding to ease property taxes. Sherrill emphasized the need for affordable housing. Former state Senate President Steve Sweeney pointed to his past efforts to reform school funding. Sean Spiller, president of the New Jersey Education Association, called for greater transparency in state budgeting. Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop proposed adjusting tax brackets to generate additional revenue.

With Murphy unable to seek reelection due to term limits, the June 10 Democratic primary is shaping up as one of the most competitive in recent memory. The field includes two members of Congress, two mayors, a union leader, and a former legislative leader. The Republican primary features former state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, conservative talk show host Bill Spadea, and several others. GOP candidates will debate Tuesday.

New Jersey voters will elect their next governor on November 4, 2025.

The June 10, 2025, primary election will determine the Democratic and Republican nominees, setting the stage for the November 4, 2025, general election.

Who is Running for NJ Governor in 2025?

Democratic Candidates

The Democratic primary has drawn several prominent figures from state and local politics:

  • Mikie Sherrill – A congresswoman from North Jersey, Sherrill is a former Navy pilot and federal prosecutor. She has a strong financial backing and broad statewide recognition.
  • Josh Gottheimer – A sitting congressman known for his centrist stance, Gottheimer emphasizes bipartisanship and economic growth. He recently voted for the Republican-written Laken Riley Act.
  • Ras Baraka – As Newark’s mayor, Baraka has focused on progressive policies, urban development and the working class.
  • Steve Fulop – The longtime mayor of Jersey City, Fulop has a background in both public service and the private sector, with an emphasis on economic expansion, transit and policy that emphasizes the need to build.
  • Sean Spiller – A past mayor of Montclair and president of the NJEA, Spiller has strong labor support.
  • Steve Sweeney – The former state Senate president brings extensive legislative experience and a network of labor allies.

Republican Candidates

The Republican primary features a mix of familiar names and newcomers:

  • Jack Ciattarelli – A former state assemblyman and past GOP nominee, Ciattarelli is making another bid after a close race in 2021.
  • Bill Spadea – A conservative radio host, Spadea has positioned himself as an outsider aligned with the party’s right flank.
  • Jon Bramnick – A moderate Republican and current state senator, Bramnick advocates for cross-party collaboration.
  • Ed Durr – Best known for his surprise legislative victory in 2021, Durr appeals to grassroots conservatives.
  • Roger Bacon – A longtime candidate with a background in manufacturing.
  • Mario Kranjac – The former mayor of Englewood Cliffs, Kranjac is a lesser-known contender in the race.
  • Jim Fazzone – A former Burlington City mayor with experience in education policy.
  • Rev. Robert Canfield – A real estate broker and firearms instructor running on an outsider platform.

The crowded primaries on both sides highlight the competitive nature of the 2025 race, with debates and endorsements likely to shape the final field.

The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.