The New Jersey governor race is shaping up to be one of the most significant political contests of 2025, drawing national attention as both major parties gear up for a showdown that could redefine the state’s political landscape. With Governor Phil Murphy term-limited after serving two terms, the contest to succeed him has officially begun.
As of November 5, 2025, campaign activity is intensifying across the state. Early fundraising, debates, and voter outreach efforts are underway, and major issues like taxes, affordability, education, infrastructure, and economic growth are already dominating the conversation. The race is wide open — and the outcome could influence not just New Jersey’s direction, but also set the tone for national politics heading into the 2026 midterms.
End of an Era: Governor Murphy’s Legacy and Term Limit
Governor Phil Murphy, first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2021, has reached his two-term limit under the New Jersey Constitution. His eight years in office were marked by ambitious progressive initiatives — including expanding paid family leave, legalizing recreational cannabis, raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, and implementing aggressive climate goals.
Murphy’s administration has been praised for strengthening social programs and managing the state through the COVID-19 pandemic, but he also faced criticism over rising property taxes, cost-of-living challenges, and the state’s debt burden.
As Murphy prepares to leave office in January 2026, both Democrats and Republicans see the 2025 election as an opportunity to either extend or redirect his legacy.
Democrats: A Crowded Field for the Party in Power
The Democratic Party has held control of the governorship since 2018, and it remains the dominant force in statewide politics. However, without an incumbent, the field is wide open — and several well-known Democrats are positioning themselves for a run.
Steve Fulop: The Progressive Executive
Steve Fulop, the Mayor of Jersey City, was among the first Democrats to formally announce his candidacy. A former U.S. Marine and investment banker, Fulop has built a reputation as a results-oriented leader with progressive ideals. He has focused his campaign on affordability, urban development, and climate action, highlighting his city’s economic growth and sustainability initiatives.
Fulop is appealing to younger voters and progressives, but he faces the challenge of expanding his appeal beyond North Jersey’s urban base.
Mikie Sherrill: The Moderate Contender
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, has not yet formally announced a run but remains one of the most talked-about potential candidates. A former Navy pilot and federal prosecutor, Sherrill is known for her pragmatic approach and bipartisan appeal.
If she enters the race, she could unite suburban voters and moderates who supported Murphy but want a fresh perspective. Political analysts view her as a strong general election candidate, particularly in swing counties like Somerset and Morris.
Craig Coughlin: The Legislative Leader
Craig Coughlin, Speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly, is also weighing a run. As one of the state’s most powerful lawmakers, he brings deep legislative experience and strong relationships with labor unions and local officials.
Coughlin’s campaign is expected to emphasize economic stability, education funding, and public safety — issues that resonate with working-class and middle-income voters.
Republicans: A Rebuilding Party with Renewed Energy
For Republicans, the New Jersey governor race represents their best opportunity in over a decade to retake the Statehouse. While New Jersey leans Democratic in federal elections, Republicans have historically performed well in gubernatorial contests — often winning when Democrats control the White House.
Jack Ciattarelli: The Comeback Candidate
Jack Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman and small-business owner, came within three points of defeating Phil Murphy in 2021 — one of the closest gubernatorial races in New Jersey history. He officially launched his 2025 campaign earlier this year, positioning himself as a “common-sense Republican” focused on fiscal responsibility, lower taxes, and government reform.
Ciattarelli’s near-win in 2021 proved that Republicans can still compete statewide, especially when they focus on economic issues. His message — “Make New Jersey affordable again” — continues to resonate with suburban voters frustrated by high taxes and the cost of living.
Tom Kean Jr.: The Moderate Alternative
Tom Kean Jr., son of former Governor Tom Kean Sr. and current U.S. Representative from the 7th Congressional District, is another possible GOP contender. Known for his calm, centrist approach, Kean could attract independents and disaffected Democrats.
If he enters the race, he could represent the moderate wing of the party, offering a contrast to Ciattarelli’s populist tone. His name recognition and political lineage remain strong assets in a statewide campaign.
Christine Serrano Glassner: The Conservative Voice
Christine Serrano Glassner, Mayor of Mendham Borough, has also signaled interest in running. She has gained attention for her conservative platform emphasizing parental rights, school transparency, and community safety.
Her candidacy could energize the party’s conservative base and appeal to voters who prioritize social issues alongside economic reform.
Key Issues Driving the 2025 Election
The New Jersey governor race will center on familiar issues that directly impact residents’ wallets, schools, and communities. While the candidates differ on policy, nearly all agree that affordability is the number-one concern.
1. Property Taxes and Affordability
New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the country, averaging over $9,000 per household. Both parties are offering competing visions for relief.
- Democrats propose targeted tax credits, housing incentives, and investments in urban development to ease the burden.
- Republicans favor statewide tax cuts, budget reforms, and caps on government spending to reduce costs for homeowners.
2. Education and School Funding
Education remains a top priority, with debates focusing on funding formulas, curriculum transparency, and parental rights.
- Democrats emphasize increased funding for public schools, teacher pay, and early childhood education.
- Republicans advocate for more local control, school choice, and accountability.
3. Economy and Job Growth
Post-pandemic economic recovery remains central to both parties’ agendas.
- Democrats highlight investments in green energy, technology, and infrastructure.
- Republicans focus on cutting red tape, lowering taxes, and attracting private-sector growth.
4. Infrastructure and Transportation
Projects like the Gateway Tunnel — a massive rail infrastructure initiative connecting New Jersey and New York — remain vital. Both sides agree the project must be completed but differ on how to fund it efficiently.
5. Climate and Energy Policy
New Jersey’s climate strategy under Murphy emphasized renewable energy and offshore wind development. Expect debate over how aggressively the state should continue that path.
- Progressives argue for bold environmental goals.
- Conservatives push for balanced approaches that protect both jobs and the environment.
Early Polling and Voter Sentiment
While the campaign is still in its early stages, polling shows a highly competitive race.
A recent Rutgers-Eagleton Poll (October 2025) found that 49% of registered voters prefer a Democratic governor, while 44% favor a Republican — within the margin of error. Among declared candidates:
- Steve Fulop leads the Democratic field with 36%, followed by Mikie Sherrill at 29%.
- Jack Ciattarelli dominates the Republican side with 55%, with Tom Kean Jr. polling at 22%.
Independent voters — roughly one-third of the electorate — remain undecided, making them the key demographic that could decide the outcome.
National Significance: Why This Race Matters Beyond New Jersey
The New Jersey governor race isn’t just about state politics. With the 2026 midterms on the horizon, both national parties are watching closely.
For Democrats, a victory would signal continued momentum in the Northeast and reinforce progressive policies on climate and social justice. For Republicans, flipping New Jersey would send a powerful message that affordability and economic reform can win in traditionally blue states.
Political analysts say the outcome could also influence fundraising, strategy, and messaging for upcoming congressional races nationwide.
Election Timeline and Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Candidate Filing Deadline | April 1, 2025 |
| Primary Election | June 3, 2025 |
| General Election | November 4, 2025 |
| Governor’s Inauguration | January 20, 2026 |
Campaigns are already organizing field offices, launching digital ads, and building coalitions in preparation for the June primaries.
What’s Next for New Jersey Voters
Over the next year, New Jersey residents will see a surge of campaign activity — rallies, debates, policy rollouts, and endorsements. As both parties finalize their tickets, voters will have a clear choice between two competing visions: one centered on expanding Murphy’s progressive legacy, and the other on reshaping state government through fiscal discipline and reform.
The coming months will test each candidate’s ability to connect with voters on affordability, trust, and leadership — the three issues that consistently drive New Jersey elections.
As the New Jersey governor race intensifies, all eyes will be on the Garden State to see which message — progress or change — resonates most with voters. Stay tuned, follow the campaigns, and share your thoughts below as this high-stakes election unfolds.