Ed Durr, Pro-MAGA Trucker, Declares Run for Governor in New Jersey

Ed Durr, known as “Ed the Trucker,” rose to fame as a truck driver turned state senator by defeating New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney in 2021. He has now officially entered the race for the 2025 gubernatorial election. Durr plans to leverage his grassroots support and conservative values to appeal to the voters in New Jersey.

During a speech in Egg Harbor Township, Durr criticized the current condition of New Jersey’s government, stating that the state is in a dire state, both financially and morally, under the current leadership. He aims to bring about change that will rejuvenate New Jersey and create an environment where residents can flourish, not just survive.

Yesterday I was honored to be invited by ABCD and join them for a board meeting and hear more about their issues and problems in the special needs community. New Jersey government has been ignoring them and things need to change. #AutismAwareness #NJDeservesBetter #Durr4Governor pic.twitter.com/DOSw5elgDp

— Edward Durr (@EdTheTruckerNJ) July 25, 2024

With Durr’s entry, the Republican primary for governor in New Jersey becomes more competitive. Durr will compete against State Senator Jon Bramnick, 2021 gubernatorial nominee Jack Ciattarelli, and potentially NJ 101.5 radio host Bill Spadea, which could further divide the conservative votes.

Durr’s campaign will highlight his background as an outsider and a working-class individual, resonating with voters who supported him in previous elections. Despite losing his re-election bid in 2023, Durr remains a significant presence in New Jersey politics due to his direct and unwavering approach and commitment to conservative values.

The Republican running for my congressional seat is literally doing the Ed Durr strategy.

Because of this, he got endorsed by Ed Durr. pic.twitter.com/sW6zq5aPoM

— Convicted Senator Gold Bar Bob (@SenGoldBars) January 18, 2024

His campaign will likely focus on issues such as tax reduction, bolstering public safety, and curbing government intrusion, which are significant concerns for his conservative supporters. Durr has a history of advocating strongly for these issues during his time in the state Senate and opposing Governor Phil Murphy’s policies.

On the Democratic side, the competition includes prominent figures like Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, former Senate President Steve Sweeney, and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, all vying for the nomination. This sets the stage for a potentially intense and consequential general election in New Jersey.

Durr’s campaign aims to leverage his name recognition and grassroots backing to mobilize a substantial conservative voter turnout. His appeal to regular citizens and his dedication to conservative ideals will be central to his campaign strategy as he navigates the crowded primary and aims to secure the GOP nomination.

As the election progresses, Durr’s ability to gather financial support and broaden his appeal beyond his core supporters will be crucial. With over a year left until the primary, the political dynamics in New Jersey are expected to change, making this a closely watched contest.