The race for New Jersey’s 2025 Democratic gubernatorial nomination is heating up—and at the heart of the progressive movement is none other than Ras Baraka, Newark’s outspoken and unflinching mayor. In a tightly packed field of six contenders, Baraka isn’t shying away from bold positions, confrontational truths, or passionate supporters.
At a recent “Meet and Greet” event, Baraka didn’t just shake hands and smile for selfies—he faced questions head-on. And when one attendee asked the simple but pointed question, “How do you differ from Steve Fulop?”—Baraka wasted no time making his stance crystal clear.
“I’m Actually a Progressive. I’m Not Just Playing One on TV.”
Baraka’s answer was direct and telling. Both he and Fulop (Jersey City’s mayor) are considered the left-leaning candidates in this primary. But Baraka made the case that he doesn’t just wear the progressive label—he lives it.
He cited his track record: endorsements from groups representing working families, immigrants, and tenants, real grassroots coalitions that reflect his advocacy and activism on the ground. While Fulop might be known for a detail-oriented, managerial style, Baraka painted himself as the candidate of vision, leadership, and movement-building—someone who fights for equity and doesn’t hesitate to take risks for what he believes in.
For voters seeking authentic progressivism—not just performative politics—Baraka is making a strong pitch.
A Mayor Willing to Be Arrested for What He Believes
Baraka isn’t just talking the talk. Just last weekend, he made national headlines when he was arrested outside an immigrant detention center in Newark. Speaking candidly at the event, he shared how he didn’t expect things to unfold the way they did—but when they did, he stood firm.
He was briefly detained, held in what he described as a “real cell,” and interrogated—all over a charge of trespassing. But here’s the kicker: Baraka pointed out that the federal government doesn’t even own the building.
“I wasn’t storming the Bastille,” he said with a touch of humor. Instead, he argued the real issue was due process, something he believes should transcend political divisions.
“If we disagree with that,” he asked the crowd, “what are we doing here in the United States?”
Equity, Education, and the Future of New Jersey
Baraka is making this campaign about big-picture structural change—and he’s not afraid to take on tough issues. One of his most ambitious proposals involves consolidating New Jersey’s patchwork of small school districts. The goal? To reduce property taxes while addressing deep-rooted segregation in public education.
This isn’t just a money issue—it’s about equity, fairness, and opportunity for all students, regardless of ZIP code. And it’s a policy area where Baraka’s blend of lived experience and leadership gives him a distinctive voice.
Rallying Against Fear and Division
In a campaign season colored by national anxiety—from immigrant crackdowns to threats of Medicaid cuts—Baraka’s message is clear: Get involved, stay engaged, and don’t be afraid.
“You can’t allow your fear to turn you into a coward,” he told the crowd, emphasizing that civic action is the antidote to authoritarianism.
With Donald Trump looming over the national stage again, Baraka believes New Jersey has a chance in 2025 and beyond to send a strong, progressive message—not just to Trenton, but to the rest of the country.
What’s Next for New Jersey Democrats?
With Baraka and Fulop likely to split the progressive vote, frontrunner Mikie Sherrill could coast through the primary—unless one of them can break out and consolidate support. Baraka is betting that voters will recognize authentic, lived leadership over polished talking points.
The question now: Will New Jersey’s progressives rally behind Baraka?
One thing is certain—this race is just getting started, and Ras Baraka is in it with fire, conviction, and a fearless vision for a more just New Jersey.
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