South Jersey popular with gubernatorial hopefuls

It's one state, but to many in the political world, New Jersey is divided into a north and a south.

Candidates seeking statewide office typically focus their attention north of Interstate 195 where they have a chance to attract the greatest number of voters.

The three main candidates for governor have bucked that trend this year, making sure to not forget voters in the southern part of the state and the issues that affect them.

"There are some people in North Jersey who have no idea what's going on here," Independent candidate Chris Daggett said during an interview last week. "You can see why South Jersey residents have a dim view of the rest of the state."

Gov. Jon Corzine has come down this way in recent weeks to celebrate breaking ground on major economic development projects, including the Port of Paulsboro and the planned medical school at Rowan University's Camden campus.

"We're putting a lot of effort into economic reform in South Jersey," said Corzine. "I'm committed that we continue with what I think is a lot of progress in South Jersey."

Technically, these trips were made in his official capacity as governor, but the appearances likely served a dual purpose.

Even when the governor is not in town, party leaders have made sure to promote Corzine's accomplishments, said fellow Democrat Stephen Sweeney, who serves as state Senate majority leader and represents Salem County in the Senate.

"He's where he needs to be," Sweeney said of the governor. "Our job is to work very hard to ensure he gets the turnout that makes him successful."

While he's made stops in South Jersey, the governor hasn't been in Salem County since the late winter.

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