Steve Sweeney

Running for:
Governor
Incumbent
Challenger

Websites

This election is on June 10th, 2025

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Relevant Bio and Experience – Steve Sweeney

Background and Profession:

  • Born in Camden, raised in Pennsauken.
  • Began his career as an ironworker, grounding him in labor and working-class values.

Personal Motivation:

  • Inspired to serve after his daughter was born with Down Syndrome, leading to lifelong advocacy for people with disabilities and vulnerable communities.

County-Level Experience:

  • Served on the Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholders from 1997 to 2010.
  • Held the position of Freeholder Director (1998–2010), implementing taxpayer savings programs totaling $30 million.

State Legislative Experience:

  • New Jersey State Senator (2002–2021), representing District 3 (Gloucester, parts of Cumberland, and all of Salem counties).
  • Elected Senate President in 2009 and led the Democratic caucus for over a decade.

Legislative Achievements:

  • Authored New Jersey’s Paid Family Leave program.
  • Spearheaded legislation for:
    • Minimum wage increases
    • Property tax relief
    • Equal pay for women
    • Marriage equality
    • Special education reform
    • Sexual Assault Bill of Rights
    • Stronger child protection laws involving sex offenders

Issues