Josh Gottheimer Announces Run For Governor, Saying NJ Is Too Expensive

NORTH JERSEY — Saying life in New Jersey has become too expensive, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, 49, announced Friday that he'll run for governor when Gov. Phil Murphy's term expires next year.

Gottheimer, a Democrat who lives in Tenafly, made the announcement at the Runway Diner in South Hackensack, surrounded by his wife, children, and supporters.

Besides trying to lower taxes and make life in the Garden State affordable, he invoked President-Elect Donald Trump, saying he will be "fighting Donald Trump when we need to, or anyone else who messes with us."

Gottheimer's run had been rumored for some time. He will face off in the primary against Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and former state Senate Pres. Stephen Sweeney.

State Sen. Jon Bramnick and former candidate Jack Ciattarelli are expected to run as Republicans.

A spokesperson said Friday that Gottheimer will be the “Lower Taxes, Lower Costs Governor” who "knows how to solve problems. Josh will always fight for Jersey families."

“Life in Jersey has become too damn expensive,” said Gottheimer at the event. “Today, I’m launching my campaign for governor to cut your taxes and costs and to make Jersey affordable again. As governor, I will lower costs and help you and your family get ahead. And, I’ll do it while protecting the values we believe in as Democrats.”

Invokes Trump

“We believe in giving people a hand up when they need it, and fighting Donald Trump when we need to, or anyone else who messes with us,” said Gottheimer.

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“I understand business. I understand the public sector. And I am ready to lead this state,” said Gottheimer.

“I hear it all the time from moms and dads, kids coming out of college, and seniors. They love Jersey, but just can’t afford to stay – or even take the family to a diner. We can’t accept that. It has to change. It’s time for a reboot."

“Now, I want to be clear – lower taxes and affordability must be joined with a commitment to deliver on our Jersey Values. I’ll be a governor who protects reproductive freedom, expands family leave and Pre-K so it’s universal, just like school meals should be … improves K-12 education, helps parents take care of their aging parents, and address the mental health crisis affecting our kids — and so much more,” said Gottheimer.

Gottheimer has also been an advocate for Israel.

Born And Raised

Gottheimer was born and raised in North Caldwell.

He has worked for President Bill Clinton and President Barack Obama and the US Commission on Civil Rights. Later, he helped run the FCC and started a non-profit to help the needy. Read more about him here.