Rising Electricity Costs Shape New Jersey and Virginia Elections

As the gubernatorial elections on November 4, 2025, approach, the states of New Jersey and Virginia are drawing national attention. Voter concerns are increasingly focused on rising electricity costs, which have emerged as a critical issue in both states. This focus may have broader implications for how campaigns across the nation prepare for the midterm elections in 2026.

In New Jersey, electricity prices have surged, with customers facing an average increase of 19 percent in August 2025 compared to the previous year. This significant hike in costs is contributing to voter anxiety surrounding affordability, which includes various factors such as grocery prices, housing costs, and utility bills. Residents are expressing frustration as they grapple with these escalating expenses, ultimately influencing their political choices.

Virginia is experiencing similar trends. Over the past few years, utilities in the state have implemented rate hikes of 30 percent from 2020 to 2023. Recently, these utilities secured approval for additional rate increases ranging from 15 percent to 21 percent over the next two years. This continuous rise in energy bills is intensifying the focus on affordability, making it a pivotal topic in the upcoming elections.

Voters in both states are prioritizing a range of issues beyond electricity costs. Taxes, healthcare, and job generation are also at the forefront of their concerns. As candidates prepare their platforms, the emphasis on addressing inflation and economic stability is expected to resonate with constituents.

The impact of these rising costs is not limited to the immediate financial burden on households; it also raises questions about the long-term viability of policies and the political landscape. With both major parties keenly aware of the significance of economic issues, the outcomes in New Jersey and Virginia may set a precedent for other states as they gear up for the midterm elections.

Analysts suggest that the way candidates address these pressing concerns could shape their appeal to voters. Candidates who effectively communicate their plans to mitigate rising costs and enhance affordability may gain an advantage in the election. The role of utility costs in determining voter sentiment cannot be underestimated, as it appears to be a decisive factor in both gubernatorial races.

As the campaigns unfold, the focus on electricity costs and economic challenges will likely remain central to discussions among voters and candidates alike. With the potential to influence political power dynamics in both states, the implications of rising electricity prices extend far beyond local issues, potentially impacting the national stage as well.