January 12, 2017
Now that the calendar has flipped to 2017, the field of candidates to replace outgoing New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is becoming clear.
Evesham Mayor Randy Brown announced at a town hall meeting on Thursday that he will not be running for governor, NJ.com reports.
Brown, 49, had seriously considered a run but ultimately decided the effort would not be worth the time spent away from his wife and three kids, according to the outlet.
The Republican mayor of the Burlington County town is currently serving his third term in office after he was elected in 2007.
Brown also works as a kicking consultant for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens, a position he has held since 2008. He previously coached the Philadelphia Eagles from 2004 to 2005 and the Chicago Bears from 1998 to 2000.
Political experts view New Jersey's governorship as the most likely seat to change parties in the next two years, making GOP candidates' bids a difficult task.
So far, four Republicans have officially declared their candidacies: Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, Nutley Commissioner Steve Rogers and Ocean County businessman Joseph Rullo. On the Democratic side, Sen. Ray Lesniak, former Goldman Sachs executive Phil Murphy and Assemblyman John Wisniewski have announced they will run.
Christie's term ends on Jan. 16, 2018. Primary elections are scheduled to take place on June 6.
