Five candidates took the stage at NJBIA’s Public Policy Forum on Wednesday to court the state’s influential business community. The event featured an exchange of ideas on taxes, affordability, and New Jersey’s competitive edge in the region.

Addressing an audience of 225 business leaders, included former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, making his third bid for governor after a narrow loss to Phil Murphy in 2021, and conservative radio host Bill Spadea. They were joined by Democrats: Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, NJEA President Sean Spiller, and former Senate President Steve Sweeney.

Rick Thigpen, a senior executive at PSEG and NJBIA board member, moderated the forum, framing the discussion around the “anxiety” gripping New Jersey’s business climate. Each candidate outlined their vision for navigating the state’s economic challenges.

As the 2025 gubernatorial race heats up the candidate pool will look a lot different as most of the candiates on this stage will eventually drop out and endorse a more viable option.