TRENTON, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Former New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney has announced his plans to run for governor in 2025.
In an online video, Sweeney formally declared his intention to run for governor. It comes as little surprise. Political analysts have expected him to eventually announce his candidacy since he lost his senate seat to Republican Ed Durr in 2021.
“Sometimes in life we face setbacks. But New Jerseyans get up, we dust ourselves off, we get back to work, because that’s who we are,” Sweeney said in the video.
He outlined some of his policy priorities.
“We need a tax system that works for families and retirees, not big corporations; a first-class education system, from pre-K through 12; and a constitutional amendment to protect a woman’s reproductive freedom.”
In the video, Sweeney says he will work to make the state more affordable, fight for reproductive rights, and help people live with dignity.
“I will always put New Jersey’s kids, working families and seniors first. You know that’s who I will fight for because that’s who I’ve always fought for,” he said.
“I’ve gotten a lot done for working people in New Jersey.”
The election is in November 2025.
Other big names have expressed interest in running for governor, including U.S. Reps. Mikie Sherrill and Josh Gottheimer, but so far only Sweeney and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop have announced.
Now, both men will work to secure the support of county Democratic leaders. Those endorsements can provide advantages for ballot position in the primary.