NJ Primary Election Date Clashes With Jewish Holiday, Lawmakers Say

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A state lawmaker who represents several towns in Essex County has added his voice to a growing chorus of politicians who want the 2025 primary election date changed. The reason? An overlap with an important Jewish holiday.

On Wednesday, Sen. John McKeon (NJ-27) said he supports moving the date of the primary – currently scheduled for June 3 – because it conflicts with Shavuot. As part of the religious holiday, observant Jews are not permitted to use electronic devices, write, drive or travel, he said.

During the two-day holiday of Shavuot, followers celebrate through desisting from work, hosting candle-lit dinners, staying up all night to study Torah, listening to the reading of the Ten Commandments in synagogue and other activities. Shavuot 2025 begins at sundown on Sunday, June 1 and concludes at nightfall on Tuesday, June 3.

McKeon said he made his statement after receiving a letter from Jewish faith and civic leaders.

“Ensuring that all eligible voters have an opportunity to participate in our democracy is fundamental,” McKeon said.

“Shavuot is an essential observance for many in our Jewish community, and we must respect their religious practices,” he continued. “By moving the 2025 Primary Election Day to avoid a conflict with this sacred holiday, we uphold our commitment to inclusivity and our duty to protect the right to vote for everyone, regardless of faith.”

The 27th District includes the towns of Livingston, Millburn, Montclair, Roseland and West Orange in Essex County, and Clifton in Passaic County.

Some lawmakers who support moving the date of the election include several candidates for governor: Josh Gottheimer, Jon Bramnick, Mikie Sherrill and Steve Sweeney. Other supporters include several lawmakers from the 38th Legislative district and the chair of the Atlantic County Democratic Committee.

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LAW WOULD CHANGE DATE

On Thursday, a pair of state lawmakers introduced legislation that would reschedule the 2025 primary election date from June 3 to June 10.

If it clears the Legislature, Senate President Nick Scutari and Sen. James Beach's bill would require the Secretary of State to inform all county clerks, county boards of election, superintendents of elections, municipal clerks, and the public of the rescheduled primary election day no later than seven days following the effective date of the bill.

The bill will be scheduled for consideration by the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee on Monday.

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