By BallotWire
2025
As New Jersey approaches the 2025 gubernatorial election, the political landscape is already buzzing with anticipation and speculation. With incumbent Democratic Governor Phil Murphy's term set to conclude, the race for New Jersey's highest office is not just a significant event but a historical one that could influence the direction of the state for years to come. The 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial primary elections will occur on June 10, 2025, and the general election is scheduled for November 4, 2025. This is a momentous occasion that will shape the future of our state.
Following the 2024 elections, the 2025 election will take place in a polarized national political climate. New Jersey, a traditionally Democratic stronghold, has witnessed a shift in its voter dynamics in recent years. This was evident in the 2024 presidential election, where Donald Trump secured victory in most of the state's counties, including Atlantic County, Cumberland County, and Passaic County, which had not voted for a Republican presidential candidate in over two decades. This shift could potentially impact the 2025 gubernatorial election, making it a highly anticipated event.
Since 1993, Democrats have won the governorship four times, and Republicans have also claimed the office four times. Interestingly, except in 2021, the winner of the New Jersey gubernatorial election has consistently been from the opposite party of the sitting U.S. president since 1993. Given these historical trends, Democrats feel bullish on their opportunity to hold the governor's office. However, the Republicans believe the gains made by Donald Trump in the presidential election could lift them to victory in November.
Gubernatorial Candidates
While incumbent Governor Murphy is ineligible for re-election due to term limits, candidates from both major parties are expected to enter the political stage. The Democratic Party is likely to present several prominent figures. Major declared Democratic candidates include:
Mikie Sherrill, U.S. representative from New Jersey's 11th congressional district
Josh Gottheimer, U.S. representative for New Jersey's 5th congressional district
Stephen Sweeney, former president of the New Jersey Senate from the 3rd district
Ras Baraka, Mayor of Newark
Steven Fulop, Mayor of Jersey City
Sean Spiller, president of the New Jersey Education Association
On the Republican side, the party may seek to capitalize on any discontent with the current administration. Major declared Republican candidates include:
Jack Ciattarelli, nominee for governor in 2021
Bill Spadea, radio talk show host
Jon Bramnick, state senator from the 21st district
Edward Durr, former state senator from the 3rd district
Jim Fazzone, former Mayor of Burlington City
The Road Ahead
The race is expected to intensify as we approach the November 2025 election. Voter registration efforts, campaign fundraising, and outreach will play critical roles in shaping the outcome. With New Jersey's diverse population and its historical tendency to lean Democratic, the upcoming election will not only determine the state's leadership, but it could also serve as a bellwether for national political trends leading into the 2026 midterms. Your vote in this election could have far-reaching effects.
With the stakes high, both parties must mobilize their bases while appealing to undecided voters. The candidates who can best connect with the electorate on these pressing issues will likely find themselves leading in the polls as election day approaches. As the campaigns unfold, increased engagement and participation from New Jersey voters will be essential to ensure that the issues most relevant to their communities are prioritized in the governor's office.