As Newark Mayor Ras Baraka enters the Democratic primary for New Jersey governor, one of the most overlooked yet potentially powerful forces in the 2025 race may be the state’s Muslim voting bloc.
Baraka, a progressive figure known for his grassroots organizing and urban policy focus, is especially well-positioned to connect with voters in majority-minority areas. But his past associations with Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan have resurfaced, raising tensions at a time of heightened global and local sensitivities — particularly around the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict.
Baraka’s Past with the Nation of Islam
In 2004, then-activist Baraka introduced Farrakhan at a Newark event and was seen applauding as the controversial leader made remarks about race and violence. Farrakhan has long been denounced by Jewish organizations for antisemitic rhetoric, including references to Jews as “termites” and conspiracy theories about Jewish control in media and politics.
Baraka has defended his participation, stating the event was intended to address rising gun violence in Newark, not to endorse any hate speech. He has reiterated his commitment to inclusion and equity.
“I stand for unity and safety in every neighborhood,” Baraka said in 2023. “I’ve spent my career building bridges across lines of race and religion.”
Muslim Voter Priorities and Baraka’s Appeal
New Jersey is home to an estimated 3–4% Muslim population, with significant communities in Paterson, Jersey City, Edison, and Piscataway. Many Muslim voters cite civil rights, economic opportunity, and foreign policy awareness as core issues — and Baraka’s platform touches several of them:
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Ending surveillance of Muslim communities
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Support for Palestinian self-determination
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Increased investment in urban schools and housing
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Publicly funded healthcare and childcare
“He’s one of the few candidates who openly talks about things like stop-and-frisk and surveillance in our neighborhoods,” said Faisal Ahmed, a civic organizer in Bergen County. “That resonates.”
Tensions Amid the Gaza-Israel Conflict
Baraka’s past association with Farrakhan is drawing renewed scrutiny amid the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict, which has inflamed tensions across New Jersey. Both antisemitic and anti-Muslim incidents have increased, according to advocacy organizations and state officials.
Jewish leaders have expressed concern about Baraka’s 2004 remarks and associations, especially during a time when Jewish communities feel vulnerable.
“Platforming known antisemites, especially in this moment of global tension, is dangerous,” said a spokesperson for the Anti-Defamation League in April 2025.
Baraka has responded by reaffirming his opposition to all forms of hate.
“I condemn antisemitism, Islamophobia, and racism in all forms,” he said. “New Jersey should be a model of cross-cultural unity.”
Could Muslim Voters Tip the Race?
While no single group decides a statewide race, Muslim voters could be pivotal in high-turnout Democratic counties like Essex, Hudson, and Middlesex — especially in a crowded primary.
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In 2021, Essex County’s primary turnout was under 15%, suggesting high growth potential
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Civic groups have launched voter registration drives targeting underrepresented communities
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A coordinated turnout effort by Muslim groups could yield 20,000–30,000 additional votes — enough to shift a close race
“We’ve seen Muslim voters flip school board and council races,” said Professor Samira Khan of Rutgers. “The question is whether a candidate can truly organize them statewide — not just talk to them during Ramadan.”
Final Thoughts
Baraka’s campaign may test the strength of New Jersey’s progressive coalition — and its limits. If he can mobilize support across Muslim, Black, and working-class voters without alienating more moderate Democrats, he could reshape the state’s political map.
Sources:
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Pew Research Center, “Muslim Population in the U.S.” (2022)
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NJ.com, “Baraka’s Farrakhan Ties Resurface” (March 2025)
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Jewish Insider, “Baraka and Farrakhan” (March 27, 2025)
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Anti-Defamation League, “2025 Audit of Antisemitic Incidents in New Jersey”
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The Guardian, “Muslim Voters Frustrated by Parties in NJ” (November 5, 2024)
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