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The 49-year-old dad and former speechwriter, who was re-elected to his seat in North Jersey's 5th congressional district in the House of Representatives earlier this month, launched his campaign Friday morning, Nov. 15, from the Runway Diner in South Hackensack.
Gov. Phil Murphy is not eligible to run for re-election in 2025 due to term limits.
Gottheimer vows to tackle affordability and fight for the values he says define the Garden State, pledging to lower taxes, reduce costs, and help families get ahead.
Gottheimer's daughter Ellie introduced her dad at the launch, calling him her role model and "twin."
Wiping tears from his eyes, Gottheimer took the podium
"Everything good in Jersey starts in a diner, and man after last week do we need some good news, What better way to take off than from here at the Runway Diner in South Hackensack," he said.
The New Jersey congressman faces stiff competition for the Democratic nomination. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, former Montclair Mayor Sean Spiller, and former New Jersey Senate President Stephen Sweeney have declared their candidacies while Rep. Mickie Sherrill, D-NJ, is expected to enter the race Monday.
“We all do what we do for our kids because there’s nothing more important for our families,” he said. “The bottom line I love Jersey it’s in my roots and it’s in my bones. Jersey has given me and my family so many opportunities and I want to make sure everyone has the same shot… but here’s the thing: Life in Jersey has become too damn expensive....
"That has to change. It’s time for a reboot. So today, I’m launching my campaign for governor to cut your taxes and to make Jersey more affordable again.”
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