Historic Announcement from Influential Mayor
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka made a historic announcement, declaring his intention to run for governor of New Jersey.
“I want to be the governor of the state of New Jersey,” Baraka boldly stated at a Black History Month event, potentially positioning himself to become the state’s first Black governor.
“We’re tired of supporting mediocre people over our damn selves,” Baraka said, signaling a departure from traditional campaigning.
His announcement, made alongside influential Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, has added another high-profile contender to an already crowded field of Democrats vying for the gubernatorial nomination.
Crowded Democratic Primary Field
Baraka joins the likes of Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and former state Senator Stephen Sweeney in the race for the Democratic nomination. Fulop congratulated Baraka on the social media platform X, acknowledging the benefits of a “robust primary.”
“A robust primary is healthy. Essex County will be an interesting place for sure!” Fulop said in his message.
Potential Republican Opponents
On the Republican side, front-runners include Jack Ciattarelli, who narrowly lost to incumbent Governor Phil Murphy in the previous election, and State Senator Jon Bramnick, known for his opposition to former President Donald Trump.
“I think we would win overwhelmingly if we would stick to the issues and get away from crazy stuff,” Bramnick stated, hinting at a potential campaign focused on substantive issues.
Background and Credentials
Baraka, 53, is currently serving his third term as the mayor of Newark, New Jersey’s largest city. Hailing from a renowned family with deep roots in the civil rights movement, Baraka’s father was the late poet and activist Amiri Baraka. The younger Baraka is also a published poet, author, and former educator.
His mayoral tenure has been marked by efforts to rebuild the police force, promote affordable housing, and address lead contamination in the city’s drinking water.
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change
If elected, Baraka would make history as New Jersey’s first Black governor and the first Newark mayor to hold the state’s highest office. His candidacy represents a significant step towards greater diversity and inclusivity in the state’s leadership.
