Sean Spiller: “It’s Time to Fight for the Working Class”

ATLANTIC CITY — Democratic gubernatorial candidate Sean Spiller says the choice for voters this June comes down to one question: Who’s really fighting for the people?

With less than two weeks until New Jersey’s June 10 primary, Spiller is positioning himself as the people’s candidate—an educator, labor leader, and former mayor of Montclair who says he is not beholden to political bosses or corporate interests.

Spiller, the current president of the New Jersey Education Association, appeared recently on The Light radio program powered by Atlantic City Focus, to discuss his grassroots campaign, vision for the state, and what sets him apart from his Democratic primary opponents.

“I’m not backed by billionaires. I’m not backed by big developers. I’m backed by educators, bus drivers, cafeteria workers—the working class,” Spiller said.

Building a More Affordable New Jersey

Spiller’s platform is rooted in the issues most impacting New Jersey families: housing, healthcare, childcare, and energy.

He called housing prices “out of control,” noting that venture capital firms and LLCs are buying up homes and inflating rents.

“We need a system where people—not corporations—get the first shot at owning homes,” he said.

Spiller is also advocating for statewide rent control measures and major investments in public housing—including workforce, senior, veteran, and accessible units. “We can’t rely on developers to solve our affordability crisis,” he said.

Education and Cultural Representation

As an educator and union leader, Spiller strongly supports inclusive public education and culturally responsive teaching.

“They’re trying to write us out of the history books so we don’t see ourselves in the future,” Spiller said. “That won’t happen on my watch.”

He also vowed to appoint diverse voices to state boards and commissions, saying leadership must reflect the people of New Jersey—not just donors and insiders.

Standing Up for Civil Rights and Free Speech

Spiller criticized the current federal administration for what he described as attacks on immigrants, professors, and students who speak out on controversial issues, particularly around international conflicts.

“As an immigrant myself, I’m deeply concerned,” he said. “If they can silence you for your beliefs, none of us are safe.”

He pledged to work with colleges to develop clear, consistent free speech policies that protect both safety and dissent—especially for students and faculty at risk of retaliation or deportation.

“We’ve Got to Follow the Money”

When asked how his campaign differs from others in the race, Spiller didn’t mince words.

“Every other Democratic candidate is funded by political machines, Wall Street, or corporate interests,” he said. “That’s why nothing ever changes. If we want different results, we have to elect different kinds of people.”

He said his campaign—powered by small donations and labor unions—is proof that it’s possible to run a competitive statewide campaign without catering to special interests.

Closing Message

Spiller’s message to voters in South Jersey was clear: “Whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, or independent, this campaign is about working families," Spiller said. "If you’re tired of rent going up, child care breaking your budget, and politicians ignoring your voice—it’s time for someone who’s not bought and paid for.”

Primary Day in New Jersey is Tuesday, June 10.

To learn more about Sean Spiller’s campaign, visit www.seanspiller.com.

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