Former New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey formally re-entered politics on Nov. 9, as he announced he aims to become mayor of Jersey Citytwo decades after he resigned as governor, Politico reported.
His announcement video, titled "Second Chances," acknowledges the circumstances of his resignation as governor, starting with footage of the press conference in which McGreevey said he is "a gay American" and was having an affair with a man while married to a woman, per The Advocate. He calls his infidelity "inexcusable" but says he has learned and grown since then.
In 2004, McGreevey stepped down from the state's highest office amid that aforementioned sex scandal, which captivated the country. After resigning, he sought to become a priest and worked in prison-ministry programs.
McGreevey, 66, says in the video that his mayoral priorities will include affordable housing and ensuring that Jersey City is accessible to everyone.
The election (a nonpartisan race with no primary) will not take place until 2025. The city's current mayor, Steven Fulop, is not seeking re-election so he can run for governor that same year.
In a 2006 interview with Windy City Times, when asked if he saw himself running for office again, McGreevey said, "Probably not. I want to be an advocate for children and poverty." He said he also wanted to be "an advocate for gay youth." The interview is at www.windycitytimes.com/lgbt/McGreeveys-Confessions/12863.html .
Andrew Davis