EPISODE · May 13, 2025 · 0 MIN
Sharpe James, Longtime Newark Mayor, Dies at 89
from AURN News · host Clay Cane, Ebony McMorris, Jamie Jackson
Sharpe James, who led Newark as mayor for 20 years and helped reshape the city’s downtown, died Sunday in West Orange, New Jersey, according to The New York Times. He was 89. His son, former Councilman John Sharpe James, confirmed the death. Known for his dynamic presence and political tenacity, James oversaw major redevelopment projects, including the Prudential Center and extensive new housing. Yet his legacy was marred by a 2008 fraud conviction for selling public land at below-market prices, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence. Still, he was remembered for instilling pride and possibility in Newark’s predominantly Black and Latino communities. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and sons Elliot, John, and Kevin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What this episode covers
Sharpe James, who led Newark as mayor for 20 years and helped reshape the city’s downtown, died Sunday in West Orange, New Jersey, according to The New York Times. He was 89. His son, former Councilman John Sharpe James, confirmed the death. Known for his dynamic presence and political tenacity, James oversaw major redevelopment projects, including the Prudential Center and extensive new housing. Yet his legacy was marred by a 2008 fraud conviction for selling public land at below-market prices, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence. Still, he was remembered for instilling pride and possibility in Newark’s predominantly Black and Latino communities. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and sons Elliot, John, and Kevin.
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Sharpe James, Longtime Newark Mayor, Dies at 89
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