The Washington, D.C.-based LGBTQ+ Victory Fund is endorsing former Gov. Jim McGreevey for Jersey City mayor, noting that he would be the first openly gay person to lead New Jersey’s second largest city.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“LGBTQ+ Victory Fund is proud to endorse Jim McGreevey for Mayor of Jersey City. Jim will bring a unique and important perspective to Jersey City and ensure all residents are considered when making policy decisions,” LGBTQ+ Victory Fund President and CEO Annise Parker said in a statement.
“He will also make history when elected, becoming the first out LGBTQ+ person to ever serve as Mayor of Jersey City.”
She continued that McGreevey has championed reproductive rights, working closely with organizations such as Planned Parenthood and Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America) to reinforce New Jersey’s standing as a pro-choice state.
In 2004, he signed legislation legalizing domestic partnerships in New Jersey, making the state the third in the nation to recognize same-sex couples with legal rights.
“Jersey City has long been among the most diverse communities in our Nation, and my grandparents emigrated from Ireland and settled in Jersey City. As mayor of Jersey City, I will continue championing policies that protect and empower LGBTQ+ residents,” stated McGreevey.
“I strongly support access to addiction treatment, mental healthcare, and medical initiatives, including diagnostic testing for HIV and hepatitis B. Additionally, I will prioritize safe and secure housing, access to higher education, and workforce training.”
McGreevey, also a former state senator and Woodbridge mayor, was governor between 2002 and 2004, resigning with his infamous “I am a gay American speech” after he admitting to having an affair with a male appointee while married to a woman.
Thus, the non-partisan November 4th, 2025 Jersey City mayoral race is his attempt at a political comeback after two decades of working on the policy side of things.
He currently serves as the executive director of the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, based out of Kearny.
McGreevey is currently competing for the mayor’s seat against Ward E Councilman James Solomon, Hudson County Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2), Council President Joyce Watterman, and former Board of Education President Mussab Ali.
