Posts in category: Politics

In a bold and unified expression of faith, justice, and hope, over 465 Hispanic churches across New Jersey have come together to endorse Newark Mayor Ras Baraka in his bid for governor. This unprecedented coalition of Latino pastors and ministers reflects a growing movement of communities seeking authentic leadership—leaders who not only speak to the people, but speak for them.

The New Jersey Latino Pastors and Ministers Coalition—one of the largest faith-based alliances in the state—announced its support for Mayor Baraka, citing his long-standing commitment to social justice, community development, and equitable policies. This support comes at a pivotal time, as New Jersey continues to face critical challenges ranging from housing inequality to criminal justice reform.

A Voice for the Forgotten

For many within the Latino community, Ras Baraka has become more than just a public official—he is a symbol of resilience and representation. Born and raised in Newark, Baraka’s deep ties to the people and his relentless advocacy for underrepresented communities resonate strongly with faith leaders across the state. His tenure as mayor has been marked by initiatives that directly impact the lives of working families, including affordable housing efforts, education reform, and violence reduction programs.

The Coalition emphasized that their endorsement is not just political—it’s spiritual. “This is a cry for justice, a declaration of hope,” one pastor shared. “We are backing the leader who understands our struggle and stands on the frontlines with us.”

A Historic Stand of Unity

In a state known for its diversity, the collective action of over 465 Hispanic churches sends a clear message: Latino voices are rising. This level of unity is rare and speaks to the gravity of the moment. For many, this is about more than one election—it’s about the future of New Jersey’s families, neighborhoods, and faith communities.

The coalition’s announcement followed recent events that have further galvanized the community. Though specifics around these events remain sensitive, they have reinforced a shared sense of urgency and the importance of electing a leader with integrity, empathy, and proven leadership.

Building Bridges, Not Walls

What sets Baraka apart in the eyes of his supporters is his ability to bridge gaps between the government and grassroots communities. He’s seen not as a distant politician, but as a partner in progress—someone who listens, learns, and leads with purpose.

Latino faith leaders are making it clear: their endorsement is not a transactional move, but a transformational moment. They are calling on all communities of faith and conscience to rally behind a vision for a New Jersey where every voice is heard, and every life valued.

Looking Ahead

As the gubernatorial race heats up, the backing of the NJ Latino Pastors and Ministers Coalition could be a game-changer. Their reach spans every corner of the state, and their influence within local communities is deep and enduring.

This is more than an endorsement. It’s a movement.

New Jersey is watching—and the message is loud and clear: the time for leadership that reflects the soul of the people is now.

New Jersey is once again in the national spotlight as one of only two states electing a new governor in 2025. With the primaries fast approaching and the general election looming, the race is becoming a defining moment for voters—not just in the Garden State, but across the country. In a political climate shaped by a revived Trump presidency, issues like immigration, housing, women’s rights, and economic stability are front and center in both parties. But what’s truly at stake is New Jersey’s direction for the next decade—and the power of leadership to reflect the values and diversity of its people.

Republicans Clash Over Trump, Immigration, and State Policy

The Republican primary has grown increasingly intense, with the top contenders sparring over loyalty to former President Trump, how to handle immigration enforcement, and what role the state should play in addressing housing shortages and affordability. In recent forums, GOP candidates made their positions clear: most align closely with national Republican talking points, doubling down on stricter immigration policies and seeking to roll back progressive state initiatives, including those that protect reproductive rights and renters.

These debates have exposed sharp divides within the party—some favoring traditional conservative governance, others echoing Trump’s populist rhetoric. What’s clear is that Republicans are preparing for a general election where turnout and messaging will be critical in a state that leans blue but has swung red in the past.

Democrats Focus on Ground Game, Equity, and Strategic Messaging

On the Democratic side, the competition is just as fierce—but the strategies are more targeted and data-driven. With public matching funds in play and Super PACs exerting significant influence, campaigns are walking a fine line between legal independence and strategic coordination. A popular tactic known as “redboxing”—posting voter targeting information and messaging cues in public campaign materials—has become a defining feature of the 2025 cycle.

Top Democratic contenders like Rep. Mikie Sherrill are using every available tool to build a broad coalition. Sherrill’s campaign is focused on face-to-face outreach and mobilizing key voting blocs, including Hispanic, AAPI, and white suburban women with a history of voting by mail. Her strategy is clear: bring in diverse, reliable voters who have turned out for Democratic primaries before and give them compelling reasons to do it again.

Sherrill’s digital materials also double as content for outside groups—highlighting her service as a Navy pilot, her legislative achievements, and her strong electoral track record. Unlike some of her rivals, she has consistently outperformed Democratic candidates above her on the ballot, a strong signal of her crossover appeal and electability.

Gender, Representation, and What’s at Stake for Women

Beyond electoral math, this race is also a test of how serious New Jersey is about achieving gender parity in leadership. With Virginia all but guaranteed to elect a woman governor this year, New Jersey has a chance to join the movement—and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Across the country, recent federal actions have undermined women’s rights, especially reproductive freedom. Having a governor who will defend—not dismantle—those protections is more urgent than ever.

Mikie Sherrill’s candidacy represents more than a resume; it’s a chance to elect a leader who brings both strength and empathy to the office. Her focus on working families, public safety, education, and economic justice reflects the priorities of the state’s diverse communities. But like many women in politics, she faces double standards. Her service is sometimes downplayed, her ambition questioned, and her experience scrutinized more harshly than her male counterparts. Yet the voters have consistently backed her—in overwhelming numbers.

Her opponents, including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, bring their own records to the race, but both struggle with voter engagement. Fulop underperformed in previous cycles compared to Governor Murphy, and Baraka’s tenure has coincided with a 64% decline in voter turnout in Newark’s local elections. These numbers raise concerns about their ability to energize voters statewide.

The Numbers Don’t Lie—And the Choice is Clear

In a year when many voters remain unaware that New Jersey’s primary is happening in June, mobilization matters more than ever. Recent polls show confusion about the election date, with only 4% correctly identifying June 10 as the primary day. Campaigns are racing against time to educate and engage voters in communities across the state.

Yet among all the contenders, Sherrill stands out for her ability to bring people to the polls and win tough races. In a political climate where turnout could determine whether New Jersey continues to be a progressive stronghold or veers sharply right, that track record is crucial. Democrats cannot afford to gamble on a nominee who hasn’t faced and beaten Republicans in competitive elections.

New Jersey voters have a critical opportunity—to make history by electing their first woman governor and to ensure the state remains a defender of equity, justice, and progress. As other states slip backward, New Jersey must move forward. This primary isn’t just about party politics—it’s about the soul of the state.

Are you ready to vote? Make sure you’re registered and informed before June 10. This is more than an election—it’s a turning point.

Explore New Jersey Politics: Where the GOP Stands in 2025

The Republican race for New Jersey governor took center stage in a televised debate Wednesday night that brought clarity—if not consensus—on where the major candidates stand. In a state where party identity is evolving, the NJ PBS Republican Gubernatorial Debate offered a revealing look at the ideological rifts within the GOP.

The hour-long debate featured three contenders who’ve each carved out distinctly different paths within the Republican Party: State Senator Jon Bramnick, former Assemblyman and 2021 nominee Jack Ciattarelli, and conservative radio personality Bill Spadea.

While candidates typically sidestep sharp distinctions during debates, this one was different. It laid bare the ideological spectrum within New Jersey’s Republican base—from traditional moderates to unapologetic far-right populists.

A Party Divided: From Compassion to Combat

If this debate had a theme, it was clear: The soul of New Jersey’s GOP is up for grabs.

Jon Bramnick, often dubbed the “last moderate,” stood out as the most centrist—or even left-leaning—voice on stage, at least by MAGA standards. Referencing former Governor Thomas H. Kean Sr.’s book The Politics of Inclusion, Bramnick pushed for empathy and a more inclusive Republican message.

“If the Republican Party does not show empathy, we’re going to get beat,” Bramnick warned. “That’s why Democrats fear me the most.”

On the opposite end of the spectrum stood Bill Spadea, an outspoken populist who framed his campaign in culture war rhetoric and hardline immigration policies. His position? The party needs to go further right—not back off.

Jack Ciattarelli, who nearly unseated Governor Phil Murphy in 2021, tried to thread the needle. He emphasized pragmatic conservatism, distancing himself from extremes while still maintaining appeal to the GOP base.

Key Policy Clashes: Medicaid, Immigration, and Identity

Medicaid & Medicare Cuts

When asked about potential cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, proposed by the Trump administration, the divide became sharp:

• Bramnick called the cuts “devastating,” especially for seniors and low-income families in New Jersey.
• Ciattarelli expressed concern about waste in the programs but emphasized the need to protect the most vulnerable.
• Spadea dismissed both concerns, instead proposing a radical overhaul that he dubbed “New Jersey’s own version of DOGE” (a reference to decentralized, local governance and spending, inspired by libertarian crypto culture).

Immigration Debate

On immigration, things got even more heated. Bramnick insisted on due process for everyone, including undocumented immigrants.

Spadea pushed back hard, labeling those here illegally as “invaders” who don’t deserve constitutional protections. He even quoted a 1949 dissent by Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson to argue that constitutional fidelity can be dangerous in times of crisis—a controversial stance, especially from someone with a media background.

Ciattarelli landed in the middle, acknowledging that mass deportations would harm the state economy but expressing faith in federal handling of the issue.

The Loyalty Question: Will They Back the Nominee?

The debate culminated in a telling moment: Would the candidates support the eventual winner of the primary on June 11?

• Bramnick and Ciattarelli immediately said yes.
• Spadea, notably, refused.

Instead, he turned the spotlight back on Ciattarelli, claiming his rival “did not want my support, nor President Trump’s support, in 2021.” Ciattarelli called it a lie. Spadea fired back with the same accusation. And just like that, the debate ended—with a bitter exchange, not unity.

What’s Next for the GOP in New Jersey?

This debate was more than just a campaign event—it was a microcosm of the current identity struggle inside the Republican Party. With former President Trump’s influence still looming large, New Jersey Republicans must choose between three very different visions for the party’s future:

• Bramnick is the bridge-builder, hoping to reclaim the center.
• Ciattarelli is the pragmatic conservative, hoping to finish what he started in 2021.
• Spadea is the insurgent, challenging the system from the right.

Notably absent from the stage were Justin Barbera of Southampton and former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac, who will appear on the June ballot but failed to meet the $580,000 fundraising threshold required by the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission to qualify for public matching funds and participate in the debate.

This event, hosted by NJ PBS in partnership with WNYC Radio, was part of the mandatory public appearances for candidates receiving public financing. Moderators David Cruz and Michael Hill ensured that each candidate had the opportunity to present their vision, challenge their opponents, and show New Jersey voters exactly who they are.

Final Takeaway

The June 11 primary will be more than a contest of personalities—it will be a referendum on the direction of the Republican Party in New Jersey. Will voters reward moderation, pragmatism, or ideological purity?

Whatever the outcome, this debate made one thing clear: the stakes are high, the contrasts are sharp, and the future of the GOP in the Garden State hangs in the balance.