JERSEY CITY – Various media reports stated this morning that Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop may announce today at a press conference that he will not seek the Democratic nomination for governor of New Jersey in 2017. Fulop’s office sent around a press release saying they are hosting a press conference at 2 p.m. to address the election.
An NJ.com report cites “a person familiar with [Fulop’s] thinking” in saying he will drop out. The person, who remains anonymous because he or she is not authorized to speak for the mayor, said Fulop will choose to not enter the race because of rumors surrounding a political consultant who is an ally.
Fulop, 39, a rising star in both New Jersey and national politics almost since the day he took office as mayor of Jersey City on July 1, 2013, is credited with making Jersey City an economic success story. He also has experience in the military and in private financial services, and has long been spoken of as a perfect candidate for higher office.
Fulop still has the option of running for re-election next year and governor in the future.