Saying that “it’s been the privilege of a lifetime” to have served as mayor, Steven Fulop ruled out another run for Jersey City’s highest office today.
“In the last ten years, we’ve changed Jersey City for the better and we’ve set a standard for what cities across the country can be” he said in a YouTube video.
The three-term mayor was first elected in 2013, defeating incumbent Jerramiah Healy. Fulop ran as a reformer, capitalizing on public anger over the Operation Bid Rig scandal that swept up several prominent Jersey City officials and politicians, including the Healy’s chief of staff, Leona Beldini.
The mayor cited accomplishments on taxes, affordable housing, open space, infrastructure, the arts and public safety. “I love Jersey City and the city’s future is bright,” he concluded.
It is widely believed that Fulop plans to run for Governor in 2025. His Super PAC, Coalition for Progress, has amassed a large war chest with $5,927,815 on hand, according to Open Secrets.
A number of local politicians have been named as potential candidates to succeed Fulop, including Ward E Councilman James Solomon, Council President Joyce Waterman, Assemblyman Raj Mukherji and County Commissioner Bill O’Dea.
Fulop’s current term runs until January 2026.