In a video announcement made public this morning, former New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney announced he will seek the Democratic nomination for Governor in 2025.
Sweeney becomes the second announced candidate for Governor, with Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop having announced his candidacy last spring.
Steve Sweeney – Fighting for NJ from Steve Sweeney Media on Vimeo.
In the 1:50 announcement, Sweeney speaks about his background as an ironworker and how his life was changed when his daughter, Lauren, was born with Down Syndrome. He speaks of his accomplishments during his twelve years as Senate President.
“I’ve gotten a lot done for working people in New Jersey,” he said. “Fair minimum wage that’s indexed, so when costs go up, pay goes up. Family leave, so parents can be there for their kids when it’s most important, and sons and daughters can care for their elderly parents. We made marriage equality the law because love is love.”
Sweeney goes on to say, “I’ll always put New Jersey’s kids, working families, and seniors first. You know that’s who I’ll fight for because it’s who I’ve always fought for. It’s who I am. A fighter for people who can’t fight for themselves. I’m running for Governor because New Jersey is worth fighting for.”
Sweeney lost his south Jersey Senate seat in 2021 to Republican truck driver Edward Durr.
The Democratic field of potential gubernatorial candidates is expected to grow by leaps and bounds as the Primary draws ever closer.