In a move that’s shaking up the Garden State’s political landscape, the Reverend Darrell L. Armstrong, a highly respected pastor and influential community leader, has officially declared his candidacy for Governor of New Jersey. His campaign is charting an unconventional path, appealing directly to the state’s significant population of 2.4 million unaffiliated voters, along with countless more who feel disenfranchised by traditional politics, by running as a write-in candidate.
Rev. Armstrong’s announcement signifies a powerful call for independent thinking and a challenge to the established political lines. He is asking voters to make history by electing, for the first time, a write-in candidate to New Jersey’s highest office. This audacious approach is rooted in a deep desire to put “people over politics” and to truly reflect the diverse voices and needs of New Jersey residents.
A Leader Rooted in Community and Experience
Rev. Darrell L. Armstrong is no stranger to public service or community advocacy. As the long-serving pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Trenton, New Jersey’s first Black Baptist congregation, he has spent decades working tirelessly to strengthen marginalized communities and advocate for issues of justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and access. His personal journey, which includes early experiences in foster and kinship care, has fueled a lifelong commitment to improving the well-being of children and families.
Beyond his pastoral duties, Rev. Armstrong’s extensive background includes policy training from Stanford University, theological training from Princeton Theological Seminary, and clinical training in marriage and family therapy from The College of New Jersey. He previously served as the Director of New Jersey’s Division of Child Abuse Prevention and Community Partnerships and as Chief Administrative Officer to the United Nations for the Baptist World Alliance, demonstrating a reach that extends from local neighborhoods to the global stage. He is also the founder and Board President of F-A-A-I-T-H (Faith-leaders Against Abuse In The Home), a global non-governmental organization working to make houses of worship trauma-informed and centers of hope.
Campaign Focus: People Over Politics
Rev. Armstrong’s campaign platform directly addresses some of the most pressing concerns facing New Jersey residents and businesses. He is emphasizing:
- Economic Revitalization: Positioning New Jersey citizens and businesses for improved economic standing.
- Affordable Housing & Tax Reduction: Addressing the high cost of living that impacts so many families.
- Educational Reform: Working towards a more equitable and effective education system for all students.
- Equal Opportunity & Community Unity: Advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and striving to unite communities across the state.
- Fair and Legal Immigration Reform: Understanding the complexities and needs related to immigration.
He has specifically highlighted the “great discontent in our Black communities due to data-supported inequities,” vowing to “right this wrong.” His vision is for an inclusive New Jersey that uplifts all residents and businesses, serving as a model for effective governance nationwide.
Rev. Armstrong acknowledges that “Politics can sometimes feel like navigating the Turnpike or Garden State Parkway during rush hour—frustrating and confusing.” However, he believes that “with your support, the ride to a better New Jersey is possible. Buckle up, New Jersey, because together, we can create a state that’s more affordable, inclusive, and united.”
On November 4, 2025, Rev. Darrell Armstrong is asking voters to “write my name, write my name” on their ballots, inviting them to be part of a historic movement to elect an independent voice for the Garden State.
For more information on the political landscape and important civic discussions shaping New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey’s politics section.
