The tour is designed to engage directly with voters and community leaders, fostering grassroots support across the state.
A Weekend of Engagement and Outreach
The tour is scheduled to commence on Saturday, April 19, 2025, with several key events:
- Morning: Opening of a new campaign field office in Mount Holly, providing a local base for campaign activities and volunteer coordination.
- Midday: A voter meet-and-greet session in Moorestown, featuring discussions with local residents and community leaders.
- Afternoon: A gathering with members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, emphasizing Baraka’s commitment to civic engagement and leadership development.
- Evening: A visit to a local barbershop in Willingboro, continuing the campaign’s tradition of connecting with voters in everyday settings.
On Sunday, April 20, Baraka will participate in Sunday services at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Burlington, followed by brunch at Taste of Soul, a family-owned restaurant, further solidifying his ties to the community.
Building Momentum with Key Endorsements
Baraka’s gubernatorial bid has garnered significant support from various political and community leaders across New Jersey. A coalition of over 30 South Jersey Democrats, including mayors, council members, and civil rights advocates, have publicly endorsed his candidacy. Additionally, more than 70 faith leaders from diverse denominations have pledged their support, citing Baraka’s commitment to social justice and transformative change. New Jersey Globe+1POLITICO+1New Jersey Globe
These endorsements reflect a growing consensus among progressive groups and community organizations that Baraka is the candidate best positioned to address the challenges facing New Jersey.
A Vision for a Progressive New Jersey
Throughout his campaign, Baraka has outlined a bold progressive agenda aimed at addressing systemic inequalities and promoting economic justice. Key components of his platform include:Shore News Network+1The Election Post+1The Election Post
- Affordable Housing: Implementing policies to close the state’s 200,000-unit affordable housing gap and expanding tenant protections.Essex Democrats
- Economic Justice: Advocating for higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy to fund public services and reduce the racial wealth gap.Shore News Network+1POLITICO+1
- Education Reform: Expanding vocational training and apprenticeship programs, making college more affordable, and returning more schools to local control.Essex Democrats
- Public Safety: Investing in community-based policing initiatives and addressing the root causes of crime through mental health and substance abuse services.Essex Democrats
Baraka’s approach emphasizes a comprehensive and inclusive vision for New Jersey, aiming to create a state where all residents have the opportunity to thrive.
Looking Ahead
As the gubernatorial race heats up, Baraka’s South Jersey bus tour represents a pivotal moment in his campaign, allowing him to connect with voters, showcase his leadership, and build momentum for the upcoming primary. With strong endorsements and a clear progressive agenda, Baraka is positioning himself as a formidable contender in the 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial election.