Breaking a Two-Decade Hiatus from Politics
JERSEY CITY, N.J. — In a notable comeback to the political scene, Jim McGreevey, famed for being the first openly gay governor in the United States, is set to re-enter politics following an almost two-decade hiatus. The ex-Governor of New Jersey has declared his plans to contend for the mayoral position in Jersey City in 2025, heralding a fresh phase in his political journey.
Announcing Candidacy for Jersey City Mayor
McGreevey’s announcement came through an online video, with plans for a formal campaign launch at a news conference later the same day. This move sets the stage for what promises to be a closely watched race in one of New Jersey’s most prominent cities.
A Look Back at McGreevey’s Political Journey
A Democrat, McGreevey previously served as the mayor of Woodbridge Township before being elected governor in 2002. His tenure as governor was notably marked by his 2004 resignation following a revelation of an extramarital affair with a male staffer and his public acknowledgment of being gay. Reflecting on his past in the announcement video, McGreevey, now 66, emphasized the importance of taking responsibility and doing the right thing.
Post-Political Career: Advocacy and Community Work
After his resignation, McGreevey did not retreat from public life. He founded the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, an organization dedicated to aiding individuals released from prison with job training, counseling, and other critical services to help them reintegrate into society.
The Road to Jersey City’s Mayoral Office
As the first candidate to declare for the mayoral race, McGreevey is aiming to succeed current three-term Mayor Steve Fulop, who has announced his candidacy for governor in 2025. McGreevey’s decision to re-enter politics in a city with a population of approximately 284,000 and its position as New Jersey’s second-most populous city, underscores the significance of this election for both McGreevey and Jersey City.
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