Trump endorses Jack Ciattarelli as he leads New Jersey's governor race
- Residents of New Jersey are participating in early voting for the gubernatorial primary elections, which started on June 3 and will run through June 8.
- Jack Ciattarelli, receiving Trump's endorsement, is emerging as a front-runner in the Republican primary amid competition from Bill Spadea and others.
- The outcome of the primaries on June 10 will lead to the general election scheduled for November 4, bringing national attention to New Jersey's political race.
New Jersey is currently engaged in its primary elections for governor, with early voting that began on June 3, 2025, and will continue until June 8. This election is significant as it marks the search for a new governor following the end of Governor Phil Murphy's term due to limitations on re-election. A variety of candidates from both the Democratic and Republican parties are contending for the positions, with primaries set for June 10 and the general election to follow on November 4. Notable Democratic candidates include Ras Baraka, Steve Fulop, Josh Gottheimer, Mikie Sherrill, Sean Spiller, and Stephen Sweeney, while the Republican field includes Jon Bramnick, Justin Barbera, Jack Ciattarelli, Mario Kranjac, and Bill Spadea. Jack Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman, is gaining traction in the Republican race, particularly following an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. This endorsement is critical as it could sway a significant portion of the voter base, especially among loyal Trump supporters. Ciattarelli's contention that he can attract not just Republicans, but also independents and moderate Democrats might prove pivotal in the largely Democratic-leaning state. His campaign emphasizes a historical trend noting that Republicans have successfully won six of the last eleven gubernatorial elections in New Jersey. Bill Spadea, another contender in the Republican primary, expressed disappointment with Trump's endorsement of Ciattarelli, arguing that he has been a loyal supporter of Trump and questioning Ciattarelli’s history with the former president. Spadea aims to position himself as the common-sense conservative, rallying to contrast his candidacy against Ciattarelli’s. With early voting commencing today, the rivalry within the Republican primary has intensified, with both candidates eager to showcase their ability to lead New Jersey. As the primary day approaches, the political landscape in New Jersey draws national attention, highlighted by Trump's involvement in local politics and the tightly contested gubernatorial race. Candidates are actively campaigning to solidify their positions as early voting is underway, setting the stage for what is projected to be a fiercely competitive primary and general election. The outcome of these primaries will determine the representatives for both major parties in the general election on November 4, making the next few days critical in the electoral process.