James Solomon, a progressive member of the Jersey City Council, has secured a decisive victory in the city’s mayoral runoff, prevailing over former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey after a competitive and high-profile race. Solomon’s win follows a November general election in which neither candidate achieved the required majority, triggering the head-to-head runoff held on Tuesday.
Solomon, who represents Downtown Jersey City on the council, celebrated the outcome late Tuesday night after results showed him holding a clear lead. McGreevey, who governed New Jersey from 2002 until stepping down in 2004, formally conceded shortly afterward.
The campaign unfolded against the backdrop of some of the city’s most pressing concerns: long-term affordability, rising property taxes, and ongoing public safety challenges. Both contenders invested heavily in grassroots outreach, with election officials reporting steady turnout throughout the day.
Solomon’s victory marks a new chapter for New Jersey’s second-largest city. He will take office in January 2026, succeeding Mayor Steven Fulop, who chose not to run again after three consecutive terms. Fulop publicly backed Solomon during the runoff, giving the councilman a significant boost in the final weeks of the campaign.
Residents can expect Solomon to begin assembling his administration in the coming weeks as Jersey City prepares for a leadership transition focused on housing stability, economic growth, and community-driven public policy.
