When it comes to politics in New Jersey, things never slow down, and 2025 is no different.
After a wild 2024 filled with shocking events and big decisions, this year looks like it will be just as eventful.
With Governor Phil Murphy preparing to leave office, a heated race to find his replacement is underway, and the state’s major issues are still unresolved.
This means New Jersey is in for another year of nonstop political action.
- Murphy’s last year focused on major projects like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary while dealing with budget issues.
- Top Democrats and Republicans, like Mikie Sherrill, Ras Baraka, Jack Ciattarelli, and Bill Spadea, are fighting to replace Murphy.
- All 80 Assembly seats are up for grabs, with national issues like SALT relief and reproductive rights influencing local debates.
As Governor Murphy’s Time Ends, His Legacy Is on the Line
As Governor Phil Murphy approaches the end of his eight years in office, he races against time to finish some big projects.
When Murphy started his second term, he probably hoped his final year would be about celebrating his accomplishments.
Instead, he faces the challenge of wrapping up important work that will shape how people remember him.
One of the highlights of Murphy’s final year is New Jersey’s role in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
During his budget speech in February 2024, Murphy proudly held up the World Cup trophy to remind everyone of the global spotlight the state will enjoy as a host for this huge event.
While this is exciting, it also comes with a lot of responsibility and planning to make sure everything goes smoothly.
At the same time, Murphy is leading preparations for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, known as the semiquincentennial.
The celebration will be another big moment for New Jersey, but it requires careful planning and resources.
These big projects are happening alongside financial challenges that Murphy must address.
Murphy has already asked state departments to prepare for a tighter budget as they work on the 2026 fiscal plan.
Programs, like the StayNJ property tax relief plan for seniors, still haven’t been fully implemented.
Problems with the state’s pension system and the school funding formula also need to be fixed.
How Murphy deals with these challenges in his final months will determine how people see his leadership.
The Race to Replace Murphy Is in Full Swing
The race to replace Governor Murphy is heating up as his time in office comes to an end.
Both Democrats and Republicans have several well-known candidates, making the competition strong.
On the Democratic side, big names are fighting for the nomination.
Mikie Sherrill and Josh Gottheimer, both members of Congress, bring national experience and broad support.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop are popular local leaders looking to win support across the state.
Former Senate President Steve Sweeney is another strong contender with deep connections in South Jersey politics.
Sean Spiller, head of the New Jersey Education Association, is also running with strong support from teachers.
The Republican side also has strong candidates in the race.
Jack Ciattarelli, who nearly beat Murphy in the 2021 election, is back for another try.
State Senator Jon Bramnick presents himself as a steady and practical choice for voters.
Ed Durr, the former truck driver who shocked everyone by winning a Senate seat in 2021, is running as a voice for regular people.
Bill Spadea, a well-known radio host with a big fan base, is also making a splash in the race.
With so many well-known candidates on both sides, the primary elections will be highly competitive.
Once the nominees are chosen, the general election is expected to be one of the most exciting in New Jersey’s history.
The Assembly Is Up for Grabs, Too
While the governor’s race is getting most of the attention, another important election is happening in 2025.
All 80 seats in the state Assembly are up for grabs.
Right now, Democrats hold a 52-28 majority, but that balance could change depending on how the elections go.
With so much at stake, these races are as important as the fight for the governor’s office.
Adding to the complexity of New Jersey politics is the impact of national events.
With Donald Trump returning to the White House for a second term, his policies will influence what happens in the state.
Issues like support for Ukraine, reproductive rights, and state and local tax (SALT) relief are expected to dominate discussions at the state and national levels.
SALT relief, in particular, is a major issue for New Jersey residents, especially those in high-tax areas who rely on federal deductions to ease their financial burden.
What’s Next for New Jersey?
If you thought New Jersey politics might slow down in 2025, think again.
This year is shaping up to be busy, with big decisions and major changes coming our way.
For the people of New Jersey, this is a big chance to get involved.
It’s the year to vote, speak up, and pay attention to the issues that matter most to you.
But one thing’s for sure: politics in New Jersey this year will never be boring.