A reality star who went to prison for tax fraud now wants to run New Jersey.
Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino wants to run for governor in 2029 after opening rehab centers in all 50 states.
We often watch reality TV stars fail for our own fun. But what happens when they decide they are ready to run our lives and spend our tax cash?
WHAT HAPPENED
Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino became famous on the MTV show "Jersey Shore." He was known for drinking, partying, and a simple rule: gym, tan, laundry.
Now, he says he wants to run for governor of New Jersey. He shared his plans at a magazine party in Wall Township.
He wants to build his drug and alcohol rehab business first. Once he has a center in every state, he plans to run for office in 2029.
WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS
Sorrentino went to federal prison for 8 months for not paying taxes on $8.9 million.
- His past business, Boca Tanning Club, shut down while owing $32,000 in back rent.
- He now runs a rehab business called Archangels in Tinton Falls.
- He has been open about his own past struggle with drug addiction.
- He says New Jersey residents "would like no property tax."
THE BIGGER QUESTION
Can a person who struggled to manage their own money and taxes really run a state budget? We love a good comeback story, but leading millions of people is not a reality TV show.
We have to ask if we are choosing leaders based on their fame rather than their skills.
THE OTHER SIDE
Sorrentino believes his personal growth makes him a good fit. He overcame drug addiction and completed his prison time.
His argument is strong for people who believe in second chances, but his past money problems will be hard for voters to ignore.
WHAT HAPPENS NOW
A campaign is still years away. For now, local people in New Jersey will watch how he runs his current business.
If he can help people recover, he might build the trust he needs.
WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW
- Which party will Sorrentino choose to join?
- How will he fund a campaign with his past financial issues?
- Will voters trust a former reality star who went to prison?
Transparency notes
Published: Jun 2, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
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Sources
External source links were not provided in this article body. Our editors reference publicly available materials and update stories as new verified information arrives.