Politics
Cory Booker to reveal intentions on gubernatorial bid in the next 2 weeks
Newark Mayor Cory Booker. PHOTO/File
Democratic Mayor Cory Booker of Newark, New Jersey, a prominent figure in his party, said Sunday that he’ll decide within two weeks whether to challenge Republican Govenor Chris Christie next year.
Booker, who leads the state’s largest city, also told CBS’ “Face the Nation” that he’s thinking about running for the U.S. Senate.
He said he has to decide on a gubernatorial bid in the next couple of weeks out of respect for his party and other Democratic candidates who would like to take on the outspoken Christie.
“I’ve got to give my party and be a part of my party’s push forward, whether it is with me as a candidate or with supporting other candidates for that office,” Booker said.
Speculation about the political future of the 43-year-old Booker has been high for much of his second term as mayor. He had planned to announce his intentions shortly after the presidential election, but those plans were put on hold as he dealt with Superstorm Sandy and its aftermath.
Christie has announced he’s running for re-election. Recent public opinion polls have ranked Booker as the Democrat who could come closest to beating the GOP incumbent, but they also show strong support for Christie.
As for the Senate, the seat held by 88-year-old Democrat Frank Lautenberg is up in 2014. Lautenberg has not announced plans to step aside.
