Even though we deliver you Hoboken and Jersey City’s news on Sundays, this story couldn’t wait. Sources close to Hoboken’s Mayor Dawn Zimmer have shared that she is not running for reelection in November — a surprising revelation to many in town.
Hoboken’s 38th mayor, Zimmer has served in Hoboken for the last 9 years as Hoboken’s first female mayor. In a press conference on June 20th, she endorsed Councilman Bhalla for mayor as he entered the race and confirmed the news that she won’t be running for re-election.
On her Instagram, she posted the following {truncated}:
I want to share with you the news that I have decided not to seek reelection this November. This has been a very difficult decision, but with a vacuum of leadership on the urgent issue of climate change from the federal government, I have decided it is the right time for me to take on a new role working more directly with the issue of climate change and resiliency – one of the most critical challenges facing our city, state and nation.
It has been an honor serving as your mayor and I am extremely proud of all that my team and I have accomplished with your help. When I made the decision to run for City Council 10 years ago and then for Mayor 8 years ago, I wasn’t looking to start a long career in politics – I wanted to help my community at a time when we were facing major challenges and making important decisions about our future.
According to Hmag, the other current candidates for mayor are:
Councilman Michael DeFusco, businesswoman Karen Nason, and activist Ronald Bautista — as well as Hudson County Freeholder Anthony Romano potentially joining, who has indicated that he may run — but unconfirmed. Councilwoman Jen Giattino has also mentioned interest in running.
Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how it all unfolds. We wish Mayor Zimmer and her team the best!
