City Councilman James Solomon has been elected mayor of Jersey City after defeating former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey in a decisive runoff, marking a dramatic finish to the 2025 jersey city mayor election.
In the December 2 runoff, Solomon secured about 68.7% of the vote, while McGreevey received roughly 31.3%. The win positions Solomon to take office in January, succeeding outgoing mayor Steven Fulop, who did not seek reelection after his unsuccessful run for governor.
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A Crowded General Election Led to a Runoff
The race began with seven candidates seeking to replace Fulop. None achieved a majority in the November 4 general election, resulting in a runoff between the top two. Solomon led the first round with 29.2% of the vote, followed by McGreevey at 25.1%.
Because Jersey City requires a majority to win, voters returned to the polls on December 2 to choose between them. With McGreevey attempting a political comeback more than two decades after resigning as governor, residents faced a choice between a progressive vision for the city’s future and a return to an experienced political figure.
Solomon’s Platform: Housing, Public Safety, and Reform
Throughout the campaign, Solomon focused heavily on affordability. He pledged to introduce rent controls, crack down on excessive rent increases, and ensure that all tenants have access to legal representation. His proposals targeted what he described as a growing affordability crisis affecting long-term residents and working families.
On public safety, Solomon committed to hiring 100 new police officers and establishing a civilian complaint review board to strengthen oversight and transparency. His public safety platform aimed to balance increased staffing with accountability and community-trust initiatives.
Solomon also benefited from key endorsements from candidates who did not advance to the runoff, consolidating progressive backing and extending his support across multiple neighborhoods. That coalition played a major role in delivering his decisive margin.
McGreevey’s Attempted Comeback Fell Short
Jim McGreevey entered the race with significant name recognition, making his first run for public office in more than twenty years. His platform emphasized affordable housing construction, including proposals for senior-focused developments, along with promises of experienced leadership.
Despite these efforts, McGreevey struggled to build momentum against the progressive wave behind Solomon. Voters ultimately favored new leadership and a forward-looking agenda instead of a return to a familiar political figure. The wide gap in the runoff results reflected that choice.
What Solomon’s Victory Means for Jersey City
With Solomon preparing to take office, Jersey City is set for a shift toward more progressive and tenant-focused policies. Rent stabilization, affordable housing initiatives, and expanded tenant protections are expected to be early priorities. His administration also plans to reshape public safety oversight through a civilian review board while increasing police staffing.
Solomon’s win signals a significant political moment for Jersey City — one that foregrounds equity, affordability, and reform. Residents are now looking ahead to see how his campaign promises will translate into actions at City Hall.
Share your thoughts below on what issues you believe the new mayor should address first and how this election will shape Jersey City’s future.