Two powerful Black ministers who each served as New Jersey Secretary of State will support Newark Mayor Ras Baraka for the Democratic nomination for governor next year, giving him the backing of faith leaders who know how to deliver actual votes in a primary election.
Rev. DeForest “Buster” Soaries, Jr. and Rev. Dr. Regena Thomas are part of a large coalition of statewide clergy members who have already signed on as Baraka supporters, including Rev. Dr. Charles F. Boyer, the founder of Salvation and Social Justice.
“It is time for New Jersey to elect a Governor who brings real experience in tackling urban challenges through effective public-private partnerships. We need a leader who understands the complex dynamics of our diverse population, comprised of countless cultures and communities,” stated Soaries. “As affordability becomes an increasing concern for many working families in New Jersey, we require a Governor with a proven track record in creating sustainable, affordable housing solutions.
Soaries had been the senior pastor of the 6,000-member First Baptist Church of Lincoln Garden until his retirement three years ago. Gov. Christine Todd Whitman nominated him as secretary of state in 1999; in 2002, he was the GOP nominee for Congress in the old 12th district against two-term Rep.
Thomas was a fabled political operative specializing in Black voter turnout before pursuing a divinity degree and joining the Grant Chapel AME Church in Trenton. She spent a dozen years working for the National Rainbow Coalition and was involved in Rev. Jesse Jackson’s two presidential campaigns. Thomas served as director of community engagement for the Democratic National Committee and ran campaigns for the National Education Association. She became Secretary of State in 2002
“Just as we rallied Black men across this country to support Vice President Kamala Harris, it’s now time for Black women to come together in force to ensure Ras Baraka leads New Jersey into a new era. In this political moment, with the threat of Trumpism looming over our democracy, we can’t afford to be divided, not by race, class, religion or zip code,” said Thomas. Now more than ever, we must unite to uplift leaders who truly represent our voices, our struggles, and our dreams. Baraka is the rising tide that will lift all boats.”
In what will likely be the first lineless gubernatorial primary since the 1980s. Baraka needs a large turnout among Black voters – and a crowded field.
Newark Mayor Kenneth Gibson ran for governor twice. Fueled by Black voters, he finished third in the 1981 Democratic primary in a field of thirteen candidates with 15%—he was just 3,452 votes out of second—and third again when he ran four years later; he was 1,534 votes behind the second-place finisher with 26%.
When Jackson ran for president in 1984, he won 24% of the vote in the New Jersey primary. In his 1988 campaign, Jackson took 34% in the state.
This week, Camden Mayor Vic Carstarphen broke with his county political machine and endorsed Baraka. Camden County Democrats are backing former Senate President Steve Sweeney. Baraka also has the endorsement of Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-Ewing).
Thomas said New Jersey “deserves a leader who is unapologetically authentic, accomplished, and inspiring – someone who consistently demonstrates integrity and meaningful action.”
“Ras is a proven champion for justice and opportunity, and his vision to uplift New Jersey’s communities, no matter their background, is one that resonates deeply with those of us committed to public service,” she said.
Soaries lauded Baraka’s decade as mayor of Newark, New Jersey’s largest city.
“Ras Baraka has proven himself to be the most effective mayor in addressing the toughest challenges facing New Jersey. His innovative solutions have garnered national recognition, and his ability to mobilize an unparalleled level of civic engagement in the state’s largest city is a testament to his leadership,” noted Soaries. “The successes he has achieved in Newark highlight his commitment to making tangible progress and delivering results.”
See here for a full list of endorsements in New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial contest.