Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop in Line to Lead New York’s Business Powerhouse
Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop is reportedly a leading candidate to take the helm of the Partnership for New York City, a prominent business organization that plays a crucial role in shaping the economic landscape of the Big Apple. This potential move comes as the current CEO, Kathryn Wylde, prepares to retire after more than two decades of service.
A Shift Across the Hudson
Fulop, who has served as mayor of Jersey City since 2013, would need to relocate to New York City if he accepts the position. His candidacy is notable not only for his political experience but also for his unique perspective as a New Jersey resident. Fulop has previously stated, “I don’t live in NYC nor do I want to,” which raises questions about how his background might influence his leadership in a city he has often viewed from across the Hudson River.
Background and Political Journey
At 48, Fulop has a diverse background that includes a stint at Goldman Sachs during the September 11 attacks, followed by military service in the Marine Corps. His political career began in earnest after he was elected to the Jersey City Council in 2009, and he has since focused on progressive issues such as affordable housing, public safety, and economic development.
In the recent New Jersey gubernatorial primary, Fulop finished third, garnering only 16% of the vote. Despite this setback, his extensive experience in local governance positions him as a strong candidate for the Partnership for New York City, which represents over 300 of the city’s largest corporations and organizations.
Economic Vision and Controversies
Fulop’s tenure as mayor has not been without controversy. He recently defended a proposal by New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani to establish government-run grocery stores, a plan that has drawn criticism from various quarters. In a statement on social media, Fulop argued that public grocery stores are not a radical concept, citing historical precedents set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under both Republican and Democratic administrations.
He pointed to Jersey City’s own initiatives, such as the “Healthy Corner Store” program, which aimed to improve access to nutritious food in underserved areas. “We gave it a real shot. It didn’t work as well as I had hoped, but I’m still glad we tried,” Fulop remarked, reflecting on the challenges of changing long-standing economic habits among local store owners.
A Record of Accomplishments
Fulop’s administration has been marked by significant achievements in housing and job creation. Jersey City has seen a surge in new housing developments and a decrease in crime rates, alongside efforts to keep property taxes manageable. His advocacy for progressive workforce policies, including family paid leave and an increase in the minimum wage, aligns with the values of many in New York City’s business community.
The Partnership for New York City aims to enhance the city’s status as a global economic hub, focusing on innovation and upward mobility. Fulop’s experience in Jersey City, which has become a model for urban development in New Jersey, could provide valuable insights into fostering economic growth in New York.
The Business Landscape
The Partnership for New York City is a powerful entity that includes major players from various sectors, including finance, real estate, and technology. Members include influential figures like John Catsimatidis, whose Red Apple Group operates Gristedes grocery stores. Catsimatidis has publicly opposed the idea of city-run grocery stores, highlighting the potential for conflict should Fulop take the reins.
Personal Background and Values
Fulop’s personal history adds another layer to his candidacy. The son of Romanian Jewish immigrants, he has often spoken about the values instilled in him by his family, particularly the lessons learned from his mother, a daughter of Holocaust survivors. His upbringing has shaped his commitment to public service and community engagement.
After graduating from SUNY Binghamton University, Fulop furthered his education at Oxford University before embarking on a career in finance. His experiences during the 9/11 attacks profoundly impacted him, leading him to join the Marine Corps and serve in Iraq. This military background has informed his leadership style, emphasizing discipline and resilience.
Conclusion
As discussions continue regarding Steve Fulop’s potential appointment as CEO of the Partnership for New York City, his unique blend of political experience, economic vision, and personal history positions him as a compelling candidate. Should he accept the role, Fulop will face the challenge of bridging the gap between New Jersey and New York, navigating the complexities of urban governance while advocating for the interests of the business community. His journey from Jersey City to the heart of New York’s economic landscape could mark a significant chapter in both his career and the future of the city.
