JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Former Gov. James E. McGreevey has surged ahead in the race to become Jersey City’s next mayor, racking up nearly $2.2 million in campaign contributions and showing a formidable financial edge over any potential rivals in the November municipal election.
A sizeable chunk of that money comes from Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore’s fundraising efforts for the former Democrat governor. Gilmore also serves a campaign consultant for GOP candidate for Governor Bill Spadea and as a senior consultant for Spadea’s Common Sense Club.
McGreevey reported raising $199,219 in the first quarter of 2025 and has $986,381 in his campaign account. His joint campaign committee, Team McGreevey — which includes city council candidates — added $427,262 during the same period and boasts $944,138 cash-on-hand, with total receipts climbing to $947,924.
The former Democratic governor’s campaign coffers are being filled from a wide array of sources, including help from an unlikely ally: Ocean County Republican Chairman George Gilmore, who co-hosted a fundraiser for McGreevey last week at B2 Bistro in Bayville.
According to the Hudson City View, speaking with HCV, McGreevey, who spoke on Gilmore’s behalf during his sentencing and also supported his pardon (as did three other former governors from both parties), did not shy away from teaming up with his old friend.
“I have known George for over 20 years and he wanted to be helpful,” McGreevey said of Gilmore.
Tickets for that event cost $1,000 per person.
Gilmore, a prominent GOP figure, was convicted of tax evasion in 2019 and later pardoned by then-President Donald Trump. His backing of McGreevey in a race branded as “non-partisan” underscores the unusual alliances forming in the high-stakes contest for New Jersey’s second-largest city.
Cross-party fundraiser draws scrutiny
The event raised eyebrows across the state’s political spectrum. Though Jersey City elections are officially non-partisan, McGreevey’s appearance at a Republican-hosted event has sparked questions about his strategy and appeal to voters beyond the traditional Democratic base.
Erik Arpert, the campaign manager for Jack Ciattarelli criticized Spadea’s involvement with the political incest commited by Gilmore and Spadea.
“Bill Spadea’s chief consultant is raising money for McGreevey, while Spadea’s own campaign twists in the wind, grasping for resources,” Arpert said.
McGreevey, who resigned as governor in 2004, has reemerged on the political stage with a focus on reentry programs, social services, and urban development — themes he’s highlighted in public appearances across Jersey City.
No major Democratic opponent has yet declared a challenge to McGreevey, who continues to lead the race both financially and in name recognition.
Key Points
- James McGreevey has raised $2.2 million with nearly $1 million cash-on-hand for Jersey City mayoral run.
- A GOP-hosted fundraiser led by Ocean County Chair George Gilmore contributed to his campaign funding.
- The non-partisan election is set for November, with no top-tier opponents declared.
McGreevey’s alliance with a GOP fundraiser boosts his war chest and raises questions in mayoral race.