NEW JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — Earlier this month, former New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney announced his plans to run for governor in 2025.
A shocking defeat two years ago sent Sweeney searching for answers. He says he’s had a lot of time to think about issues he wants to fix in New Jersey.
“Leaders have to lead and they have to tackle issues that people might not like, maybe not want to deal with — you know what I mean, they just don't wanna touch it. But it has to be touched,” he said.
He says affordability is on the top of his list.
“To make New Jersey a place where you can raise your family, send your kids to school, and retire and not have to leave New Jersey.”
He says housing costs are a big part of what makes the state unaffordable and he thinks some shared services for local police and fire departments are a good way to reduce costs and improve public safety. He also says multi-year budgeting is a must because it stops the ups and downs with budgets.
“You’ll be able to project out.”
Sweeney says he will continue pushing for offshore wind development not only for the jobs but also because he thinks energy should come from diverse sources, including fossil fuels.
“You know, people think gas is a dirty word, but you need gas to go along with nuclear, along with solar, along with wind, along with hydrogen, because it creates a diverse portfolio.”
So far, Sweeney and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop are the only democrats to declare their candidacy — though Sweeney expects several more to enter the race.