The 2025 Jersey City mayoral race, set for November 4, 2025, has emerged as a high-stakes contest to succeed outgoing Mayor Steven Fulop, who chose not to run for a fourth term and instead pursued the governor’s office. Among the crowded field, four candidates stand out: former governor Jim McGreevey, Council President Joyce Watterman, Commissioner Bill O’Dea, and Ward E Councilman James Solomon.

Jim McGreevey, who served as New Jersey governor from 2002 to 2004, is leveraging his name recognition and formidable fundraising—raising over $4 million and holding more than $2 million in cash on hand—to position himself as the frontrunner. An internal poll from June showed McGreevey leading with 38% among likely voters, well ahead of Solomon, O’Dea, and Watterman.

However, other polls show the race tightening: more recent polling places McGreevey at around 27–30%, with Solomon and O’Dea closing in, and a large bloc of undecided voters—raising the likelihood of a runoff in December.

Solomon, a two-term councilman from Ward E, has built a powerful war chest with nearly $1.6 million raised and $1.23 million in campaign funds available. His momentum is further boosted by polling that shows him neck and neck with McGreevey. Insiders suggest he may attract voters seeking change and reform.

Bill O’Dea, a longtime Hudson County Commissioner and former city councilmember, is banking on his grassroots support. He recently submitted thousands of petition signatures—framing his campaign as driven by local volunteers and deep community roots. Polls place him just behind McGreevey at 18%, with a narrative that his favorability could surge as voters learn more about his record.

Joyce Watterman, serving as Council President and an at-large councilmember, lags behind in both polling (around 5–7%) and fundraising—raising just over $16,000 in the second quarter with $84,600 on hand. While her current standing is modest, Watterman remains a known figure in city politics and a potential influence in shaping alliances or runoffs.

While their qualifications remain subjective, the needs of Jersey City are clear. Money has been doled out for infrastructure and none of those dollars seem to benefit Jersey City residents. The Port Authority has started a multi-billion project, expected to last for years. Residents of Jersey City have not received the benefit of any of those monies.

Voters believe their representatives should be at the forefront of budget disbursement. Jersey City needs more money, and residents expect their representatives to find it and fight for it, for the good of the people.

In summary, the Jersey City mayoral race is wide open as of early September 2025. McGreevey leads in name and funds, but Solomon and O’Dea pose serious challenges, and Watterman could influence the outcome—making a December runoff increasingly likely if no candidate surpasses 50%. The race hinges not just on money and recognition, but also on messaging, grassroots appeal, and the ability to sway undecided voters.