Sharpe James passes away at 89, leaving a controversial legacy
- Sharpe James, who held his position for 20 years and never lost an election, passed away on May 11, 2025.
- His legacy includes significant urban development initiatives in Newark, though it was tainted by his corruption conviction in 2008.
- The passing of James marks the end of an era in Newark politics, leaving behind a mixed legacy as both a beloved leader and a controversial figure.
In Newark, New Jersey, Sharpe James, the charismatic former mayor, passed away at the age of 89 on May 11, 2025. James served as the longest-serving mayor of Newark and was recognized for his influential role in attracting development to the city's downtown. He first entered politics in 1970, winning a seat on the Newark City Council, and subsequently secured four terms as mayor over two decades. However, his political career was overshadowed by a federal investigation that led to his conviction on corruption charges in 2008, where he was found guilty of exploiting his office to benefit his girlfriend, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence. His political journey was marked by a contentious campaign against Cory Booker in 2002, which was documented in the film 'Street Fight'. Many saw James as a larger-than-life figure despite the accusations against him, and he remained a well-known but polarizing personality in New Jersey politics. Following his departure from the mayor’s office, Booker succeeded him as mayor, emphasizing the impact James had in Newark during and after his time in office. With his death, many reflect on his complex legacy that encompasses both significant contributions to Newark's development and the controversies that defined his later years.