Solomon Beats Ex-Gov. McGreevey To Be Jersey City Mayor, AP Says

This story was updated at 11:45 p.m. Tuesday

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JERSEY CITY, NJ — Jersey City Councilman James Solomon has defeated former New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey to become the next mayor of Jersey City.

Votes counted by the end of Tuesday night showed Solomon beating McGreevey by more than 2 to 1. (See updated vote totals below.)

Solomon — who as councilman represented the downtown area near the waterfront — will replace outgoing Mayor Steven Fulop.

Seven candidates ran for mayor last month, but none drew more than 50 percent of the votes cast, prompting the runoff between the top two vote-getters.

Issues such as rents (among the highest in the nation), affordability, development, and national politics were hotly debated in the race. READ MORE: McGreevey Responds To Solomon's Accusations About Trump, National Politics

Solomon's Victory Speech

Solomon said Tuesday, "Tonight is a win for Jersey City against the corrupt political machine. Together, we’re going to build a more affordable Jersey City, where everyone has a chance to thrive and where the people are put first, not developers and special interests. My promise to Jersey City is simple: I will be a mayor for you.

"From the Hill to the Heights, I've met countless people and families who embody the heart of Jersey City. Your stories of perseverance in the face of rising rents, your visions for a community where no one is pushed out or left behind, and your unyielding commitment to justice and equity have inspired me deeply.

"...Our campaign was built on the belief that every resident deserves access to housing you can afford, excellent public schools, and safe neighborhoods. It was fueled by conversations with families struggling to make ends meet, with seniors who feared being priced out of the communities they’ve called home for decades, and with young people who aspire to stay in Jersey City and build their lives here ... This is just the beginning, and together, we will create a Jersey City as good as its people.”

Updated (Unofficial) Vote Totals

Note: Because paper ballots could be mailed in until 8 p.m., the final numbers will not be known for at least several days.

• James McGreevey: 10,548
• James Solomon: 22,291

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