After announcing his candidacy nine months ago, former Assemblyman Charles Mainor won’t be seeking the Jersey City mayor’s seat, but he still plans on being on the November 7th ballot as he’ll run for Ward A council instead. 
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I’m going to be picking up petitions for Ward A around 2 p.m. today,” Mainor told Hudson County View.
The retired Jersey City police detective said he finalized the decision after meeting with his doctor earlier today.
Last month, it was initially believed that Mainor suffered a heart attack while filming a Facebook Live video, but he said his physician said today it actually wasn’t a heart attack or stroke, but a condition “where blood didn’t get to the brain for a short period of time.”
“He recommended taking a step back and reducing stress. He advised against a citywide campaign … I may not be the captain, but I’ll definitely be there to help navigate,” added Mainor.
The change of scenery will likely greatly improve Mainor’s chances holding elected office again, as he had yet to roll out a council ticket and had failed to raise anywhere near six figures as a mayoral candidate.
Mainor will now challenge anti-violence activist Pamela Johnson, corrections officer Rick Johnson (no relation to Pamela) – who is running on mayoral challenger Bill Matsikoudis’ ticket – and Denise Ridley, who is on Mayor Steven Fulop’s slate.
The former state legislator admitted that he still considers Ridley a friend, but that won’t discourage him from running.
“We are friends and we’ve been friends for a while. Denise was a community advocate, along with myself, and we’ve worked together,” explained Mainor.
“Whether it’s black, white, purple, green, I believe hearing my message and Denise’s message is necessary for Ward A residents to make an informed vote … I believe that my past has shown I’m willing to do what’s best for the residents of Jersey City. My message has not changed.”
Mainor also vowed that Ward A “would not become a forgotten part of the city” under his watch.
Responding to rumors that veteran campaign operative Pat Desmond would be aiding his quest for a council seat, he said that wasn’t in the card yet, but he’d “love” if it was.
“I would love for Pat Desmond to run the campaign, he is the man,” Mainor responded enthusiastically.
The Jersey City municipal elections take place on November 7th.
