Trenton mayoral candidates face off in two debates in September
National politics dominates the headlines and floods through most people’s scrolling habits.
What many people don’t realize is that local governance impacts their lives far more than whatever is happening in D.C.
Trenton voters are facing a choice this fall between an incumbent mayor seeking his third term and at least five challengers, each with their own vision of where they want to take the Capital City.
The Trentonian and The Trenton Journal are teaming up to present a pair of mayoral debates so voters can hear from each candidate about their plans.
“The Trenton Journal is pleased to team up with the Trentonian and other community partners for these upcoming candidate forums,” Trenton Journal Publisher Kenneth Miles said. “The public needs as much information as they can get from each candidate running for office before they decide in November who will earn their vote. I am particularly proud to partner with the Trentonian because it shows the spirit of collaboration between local media outlets, as well as the public service of journalism. The fact that the forum will be in-person and live-streamed allows Trenton residents access to hear candidates speak on critical issues that impact our daily lives in the capital city.”
Hosted by Mercer County Community College’s James Kearney Campus, there will be two moderated forums in September.
The first, on Sept. 12 at 10 a.m., will focus on crime and public safety.
Then on Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m., the candidates will be questioned about housing, community development, and economic development.
“Our goal is to have each candidate tell us more in depth about their policies to help change the city,” said Darius Dove of MCCC. “This format will be unlike anything done in Trenton before. We invite the community to come be a part of this event.”
Several community partners are also helping present the forums, including the NAACP Trenton Branch, Gear Up New Jersey, Soaring Beyond Expectations, Latino Action Network of Mercer County, and VIP Top Teens.
All certified candidates have been invited to participate; with the deadline to file in August, more candidates will be invited if they get on the ballot as well.
At this time, current mayor W. Reed Gusciora, City Councilwoman Jasi Mikae Edwards, attorney and School Board member Austin Edwards, TPD Det. Corey McNair, retired TPD Det. Lt. Rolando Ramos, and former City Councilwoman Robin Vaughn have each confirmed for at least one of the dates.
The Trentonian and MCCC teamed up for a pair of debates in 2018, for the wider race in the general election and for the runoff election.
This year’s debates will be recorded and livestreamed again by students and faculty of MCCC and posted on The Trentonian and Trenton Journal websites as well as MCCC’s YouTube.
The 2026 events will be free to attend at MCCC’s James Kearney Campus at 102 N. Broad St. in Trenton.
