The New Jersey governor plays one of the most powerful roles in American state government — overseeing a $55 billion budget, influencing national policy debates, and leading a state known for its economic importance and political diversity.
As of November 2025, Governor Phil Murphy remains in office, completing the final year of his second term. With term limits preventing him from running again, New Jersey’s attention is shifting toward the next major election in 2025 — a race expected to be one of the most competitive in the state’s modern history.
Governor Phil Murphy’s Legacy and Current Standing
Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat first elected in 2017, has governed with a progressive but pragmatic approach. His administration has focused on expanding education funding, boosting renewable energy, improving worker rights, and guiding the state through the COVID-19 pandemic and economic recovery.
Murphy’s approval rating currently hovers around 49 percent, according to recent Rutgers-Eagleton polling. He remains relatively popular among Democrats, especially in urban and suburban areas like Newark, Jersey City, and Montclair.
While Murphy’s supporters credit him for his economic policies and social progress, critics argue that the state’s high cost of living, heavy taxation, and ongoing transit issues remain unresolved challenges after nearly eight years of Democratic leadership.
A Closer Look at Murphy’s Achievements
During his two terms as New Jersey governor, Murphy has introduced a series of ambitious reforms that have reshaped state policy:
1. Economic Growth and Innovation
The state’s unemployment rate has stabilized at 3.7 percent, below the national average, while job creation continues in high-tech industries.
Murphy’s administration attracted major investments in technology, offshore wind energy, and life sciences. His New Jersey Economic Recovery Act provided incentives for green manufacturing and small-business development.
2. Education and Childcare
Murphy expanded free pre-kindergarten access to tens of thousands of families and increased state funding for public schools through the School Funding Reform Act. He also supported higher education affordability initiatives, including tuition-free community college for low-income students.
3. Clean Energy Leadership
New Jersey has positioned itself as a national leader in renewable energy under Murphy’s “Energy Master Plan.” The state’s goal is to reach 100 percent clean energy by 2050, with major offshore wind projects under construction along the Jersey Shore.
4. Worker Protections and Wages
Murphy signed legislation raising the state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour, one of the highest in the country. He also expanded paid family leave and implemented stronger worker protections for gig and contract employees.
5. Healthcare and Public Health
Murphy’s administration invested in public health infrastructure, mental health services, and lower prescription drug costs. He also supported reproductive rights protections following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision that overturned Roe v. Wade.
Challenges Facing the Murphy Administration
Despite these successes, Murphy’s tenure has not been without challenges.
1. Property Taxes
New Jersey still holds the highest property tax rate in the nation, with average annual bills exceeding $9,800. While the governor has expanded rebates and tax credits for middle-class homeowners, structural reform remains elusive.
2. NJ Transit Woes
Public transit remains one of the state’s biggest frustrations. Delays, infrastructure repairs, and budget constraints have plagued NJ Transit, despite new investments. Commuters are demanding faster, more reliable service — especially between North Jersey and New York City.
3. Housing Affordability
The rising cost of housing continues to price out many families. Murphy has pushed for more affordable housing development, but local zoning laws and community resistance have slowed progress.
4. Political Tensions
Murphy has occasionally clashed with state legislators over spending priorities and renewable energy projects. Republicans, and even some moderate Democrats, argue that his policies lean too heavily toward government expansion.
The 2025 New Jersey Governor Race: Early Contenders and Dynamics
With Murphy term-limited, attention has turned toward the 2025 gubernatorial race — and both major parties are gearing up for a fierce contest.
Democratic Field
The Democratic Party remains dominant statewide, but internal divisions between progressives and moderates could shape the primary.
Key Democratic figures eyeing a run include:
- Mikie Sherrill – The U.S. Representative from the 11th District, a Navy veteran with a bipartisan image, is widely seen as a front-runner. Her platform emphasizes affordability, infrastructure, and public safety.
- Steve Fulop – The popular Jersey City mayor has already launched his campaign, promoting economic revitalization and statewide transportation reform.
- Tahesha Way – Currently serving as Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State, Way’s strong background in election security and equity initiatives makes her a serious contender.
All three are expected to focus on maintaining Murphy’s progressive achievements while addressing voter frustration over taxes and transit.
Republican Field
The GOP sees a rare opportunity to reclaim the New Jersey governor’s office after 16 years of Democratic control.
Likely Republican contenders include:
- Jack Ciattarelli – The former state assemblyman who narrowly lost to Murphy in 2021 is widely expected to run again. He’s positioning himself as a fiscal conservative who can appeal to suburban moderates.
- Christine Serrano Glassner – The Mendham Borough mayor and former U.S. Treasury official has built a reputation as a pragmatic Republican focused on local government efficiency.
- Senator Jon Bramnick – A moderate Republican from Union County who could attract centrist voters if he decides to enter the race.
With Democrats maintaining voter registration advantages, Republicans will need to expand appeal among independents to remain competitive.
Key Issues Shaping the 2025 Race
The next New Jersey governor will face complex challenges that affect nearly every household.
1. Affordability Crisis
High living costs remain the dominant issue. Both parties are proposing property tax reforms, expanded rent relief, and incentives for affordable housing development.
2. Climate and Energy Policy
Murphy’s clean energy transition has created new jobs but also sparked debate over costs and feasibility. Candidates will need to clarify whether they’ll expand or modify the state’s aggressive renewable targets.
3. Public Safety and Policing
While crime remains lower than in many large states, urban safety continues to be a concern. The next governor will likely balance community-based policing with investments in technology and mental health services.
4. Education Reform
Funding equity, school choice, and parental involvement in curricula are major points of contention. New Jersey’s strong teachers’ unions are expected to play an influential role in the 2025 campaign.
5. Transportation and Infrastructure
Modernizing NJ Transit and improving road infrastructure are critical voter priorities, especially for commuters in the northern and central regions of the state.
Murphy’s Continuing Influence on the Political Landscape
Even as his term winds down, Governor Murphy remains a key power broker in state and national politics.
He continues to chair Democratic fundraising efforts and maintains close ties to national party leadership. Political observers speculate that Murphy could pursue a future role in Washington — potentially in a cabinet position or even as a presidential contender in 2028.
At the state level, Murphy’s endorsement will likely carry significant weight in the Democratic primary, shaping who becomes his successor.
New Jersey’s Economic and Social Outlook
New Jersey’s outlook entering 2026 is cautiously optimistic.
- Employment: Job creation continues, particularly in renewable energy, technology, and logistics.
- Population Growth: After years of stagnation, the state’s population is slowly increasing, thanks to urban revitalization and immigration.
- Education Rankings: New Jersey consistently ranks among the top three states in public education nationwide.
- Health and Safety: Expanded healthcare access and improved police-community relations have strengthened the state’s overall quality of life.
Still, high taxes, infrastructure costs, and political polarization remain ongoing concerns for the next administration.
Why the New Jersey Governor’s Race Matters Nationally
The outcome of the 2025 gubernatorial election will have national implications.
New Jersey is often viewed as a political bellwether for suburban America — testing how Democrats and Republicans adapt to shifting demographics and economic realities.
A Democratic victory would cement New Jersey’s reputation as a progressive stronghold. A Republican upset, however, could signal broader momentum heading into the 2026 midterms.
As New Jersey prepares for its next chapter, the question isn’t just who will be the next governor — but how that leader will shape the Garden State’s future. What are your thoughts on the direction New Jersey should take? Share your perspective and stay tuned as the 2025 governor’s race unfolds.