Bhalla won’t run again in Hoboken, hints at Assembly bid

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla will not seek re-election to a third term this year, opening the door to a bid for the Democratic nomination for State Assembly in the 32nd district.

“While I plan to pursue public service through a different path, I wanted to let you know that 2025 will be my last year as mayor of our great city,” Bhalla said in a letter distributed to residents.

There has been considerable speculation that freshman Assemblyman John Allen (D-Hoboken), Bhalla’s former chief of staff, would not run for a second term.

Bhalla cited securing the former Union Dry Dock site for use by the public, his Vision Zero pedestrian safety initiative, and the establishment of a resiliency park.

“I’m more than confident about the future of Hoboken, and the path our team has paved for whomever is elected as your next leader. Our waterfront is now, once and for all, free from development,” Bhalla said.  “We have adopted redevelopment plans that maintain the charm and character of our city, while providing needed revitalization. We’ve preserved over 10 acres of land for public parkland, without sacrificing major concessions. And we have continued a model of transparency for major city projects, that I am fully confident the public will press for going forward.”

In 2024, Bhalla challenged freshman Rep. Robert J. Menendez (D-Jersey City) in the Democratic congressional primary, but lost by fourteen percentage points.  Still, he raised over $2.2 million for his primary.

“Fortunately, Hoboken is home to a number of talented public servants and activists, and I have no doubt that the future is bright,” he said. I also have full faith that the voters of Hoboken will select a trusted leader to bring our City to even greater heights in the years ahead.”

Possible candidates include four city councilmembers: Emily Jabbour, a Bhalla ally; Michael Russo, the son of a former mayor; Ruben Ramos, a former assemblyman; and Tiffanie Fisher, a staunch Bhalla critic.

“While Mayor Bhalla and I have not always agreed on policy issues, I respect his commitment to public service and wish him well in his future endeavors. With the Mayor announcing that he will not seek re-election our community is about to be at a crossroads,” said Ramos.  “I believe that residents want a new direction that prioritizes their needs above outside political interests, and I will be discussing my future plans with my family, neighbors, and supporters in the coming weeks.”

Fisher said she wishes Bhalla well as he begins “this next chapter.”

“Over the past seven years, Hoboken has seen significant progress and faced historic challenges, from transformative infrastructure projects to navigating the unprecedented difficulties of COVID-19. I thank Mayor Bhalla for his service and leadership during this time,” she said.  “Looking ahead, Hoboken stands at a pivotal moment, with opportunities to build on successes and address the challenges that remain to further strengthen our amazing community.”