Six Democratic candidates vying to be New Jersey’s next governor, including two sitting members of Congress, the mayors of the state’s two largest cities, the head of the state’s largest teachers’ union, and a former top lawmaker, took the stage Sunday for the first debate of the race.
The nearly two-hour debate, held at Rider University, comes four months ahead of the June primary, as Gov. Phil Murphy, a two-term Democrat, is barred from seeking re-election. The discussion focused on state issues such as public school funding, property taxes, and public pensions, while also addressing national concerns like immigration and transgender rights.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka delivered sharp criticism of former President Donald Trump’s executive orders on immigration, particularly after recent federal arrests in his city. “We can’t fight extremism with moderation,” Baraka said.
Other candidates presented their visions for making New Jersey more affordable. Rep. Josh Gottheimer emphasized securing more federal funding to lower property taxes, while Rep. Mikie Sherrill pushed for increased affordable housing. Former state Senate President Steve Sweeney highlighted his past work on school funding reform, and New Jersey Education Association President Sean Spiller called for eliminating “back room” political dealmaking. Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop proposed tax bracket changes to increase state revenue for property tax relief.
The candidates largely agreed that New Jersey Transit has failed residents and requires significant improvements.
New Jersey voters have historically shifted against the president’s party in gubernatorial races, though Murphy defied that trend with his 2017 and 2021 victories. His tenure has seen major policy achievements, including legalized recreational marijuana, full funding of public pensions, and a revamped school aid formula.
The first Republican gubernatorial debate is scheduled to take place Tuesday night.