The 2025 Jersey City mayoral race, set for November 4, 2025, has emerged as a high-stakes contest. Messaging, grassroots appeal, and the ability to sway undecided voters will ultimately determine who will ascend to the mayorship. Currently, candidates are either gaining ground or losing ground (depending on the perspective of whichever demographic one decides to believe).

Former governor Jim McGreevey has remained the frontrunner, but Commissioner Bill O'Dea and Councilman James Solomon are picking up steam in the polls and on the streets. Council President Joyce Watterman remains a wildcard, but her ability to split local allegiances is expected to force a closer race.

McGreevey has taken his campaign directly to the people, hitting the streets and canvassing neighborhoods with determination. By meeting voters face-to-face, shaking hands, and engaging in meaningful conversations, he is working to build trust and establish a personal connection. This grassroots strategy highlights his understanding of the importance of direct voter engagement in modern politics.

To ensure they remain visible and accessible, O'Dea and Solomon have been attending key events and gatherings. From formal dinners to community appearances, they are making a concerted effort to connect with their constituents on a personal level. These interactions allow them to listen to concerns, share their vision, and reinforce the message that success is possible when everyone works together.

Despite not having the financial resources of some of her competitors, Watterman enjoys steadfast admiration and support, particularly among residents of Wards A and F. Her ability to connect with these communities has solidified her reputation as a leader who listens and understands the needs of her constituents. Should the race be very tight among her competitors, she may very well be the keeper of office-winning votes.

As we observe the decline of the influence once held by Mikie Sherrill, no candidate should underestimate the importance of being prepared to persuade constituents. No one is entitled to their position. As a representative, Mikie must be in Washington D.C., so she hasn't canvassed or shaken hands with voters recently. She trusted TV and social media to establish her connection. Now, she and Republican Trump ally Cittarelli are neck and neck in the governor's race. The message from voters is clear: politicians must read the room and collaborate with constituents to bring about change. Teamwork is essential for victory. Clear direction and strategy show you are serious. By emphasizing collective effort, candidates can garner support. O'Dea and Solomon have attracted supporters through a shared purpose. Watterman has also tapped into this reservoir of commitment. She is expanding her audience—those who have always trusted her to do the right thing as a representative. All of them are actively engaging in meaningful conversations, listening to constituents, and reassuring voters that their goals are attainable. They aim to make this election about Jersey City residents, not themselves.

However, this contrasts sharply with the frontrunner. McGreevy has made it clear what he wants to do, but is Jersey City convinced that he is the candidate to do it? Many residents fear that McGreevy will return the city administration to nepotism, favoritism, and increased gentrification. Their support is strong but dwindling as the day gets closer. Solomon and O’Dea have the money to start closing in. O'Dea has the name recognition to rival the former governor in Jersey City. He asserts that there is a Jersey City community that thirsts for his ideals in government. Solomon has a war chest nearly the size of McGreevy's donations. And, insiders suggest, he may attract voters seeking change and reform in the next administration.Watterman is also a factor, particularly as a large bloc of independent and Black voters still needs to be convinced.

Theneeds of Jersey City are clear. Money for infrastructure has not benefited Jersey City residents. A multi-billion-dollar Port Authority project has started on the Holland Tunnel. That should keep people working for the next decade. At a time when unemployment among Jersey City residents has increased by nearly 20% from just last year, our representatives need to be fighting for every dollar that is on the table. Voters believe representatives are there for them. If the people need more money, it is up to their representatives to wrangle those funds back home. Residents expect their representatives to find it and fight for it, for the good of the people.

So to recap, as we enter October 2025, McGreevey has a dwindling lead, but a lead nonetheless. Solomon and O’Dea pose serious challenges, but Watterman could be a spoiler as her supporters influence the outcome. This mayoral campaign hinges on messaging, grassroots appeal, and the ability to sway undecided voters. But, as time keeps ticking, it seems increasingly likely that there will be a December runoff with no candidate surpassing 50%. At least that's the outlook, this week.