Jack Ciattarelli blames Phil Murphy for soaring energy costs in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the soaring electricity costs have become a significant point of contention in the political landscape. Gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli has openly criticized Democratic Governor Phil Murphy's energy policies, asserting that they have led to New Jersey's dependency on electricity imports and caused rate hikes between 17% and 20% for most households starting June 2025. Ciattarelli argues that when Murphy took office, New Jersey was an electricity exporter, a status that has changed rapidly under his administration. Murphy was re-elected in 2021, making history as the first Democratic governor in over four decades to win a second term. Under his leadership, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has consistently approved rate increases, prompting concerns about the effects of these policies on residents and businesses. Ciattarelli has emphasized the need to reopen closed power plants and expand nuclear energy capabilities, claiming that wind power is both unreliable and expensive. His campaign prioritizes addressing the high cost of electricity, linking it directly to the affordability of living in New Jersey. Recent data suggests that nationwide, residential electricity rates could rise by as much as 18% in the coming years, driven by increased demand, especially from emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and data centers. Nearly 60 utility companies are set to increase electricity rates by over $38 billion, affecting more than 57 million Americans. This trend mirrors national statistics, which indicate rising natural gas prices and the impact of expanding technology on energy consumption. Critics argue that policies regarding renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, are partly to blame for these spikes in cost due to the challenges of integrating them into the existing grid adequately. In July 2025, Murphy signed two bills aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency in the governance of the PJM Interconnection, the primary grid operator for New Jersey. Under this legislation, the administration seeks to hold the operator responsible for the rising utility costs. Despite these efforts, the debate continues, with Ciattarelli asserting that his Democratic opponent, Mikie Sherrill, would struggle to fulfill any promises to freeze utility rates due to legal limitations. Both candidates are positioning energy policy as a key issue in the upcoming gubernatorial race, drawing stark contrasts in their approaches. The focus on energy is essential as it intersects with economic stability and the quality of life for New Jersey residents. Ciattarelli's campaign message resonates with those frustrated by rising bills, while Murphy’s administration points to the complexities of energy demand that have surged more recently due to various factors not entirely within local control.