Jack Ciattarelli Gains Democratic Endorsements in NJ Governor Race

Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli is expanding his support base in the New Jersey gubernatorial race by securing endorsements from several prominent Democrats. The latest endorsement came from the New Era Democrats, a center-left political organization based in Brooklyn, marking at least eight Democratic endorsements for Ciattarelli as he aims to challenge incumbent Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ).

Celia Iervasi, President of the New Era Democrats, expressed confidence in Ciattarelli’s candidacy, stating, “We are proud to endorse Jack Ciattarelli for Governor of New Jersey. As life continues to become unaffordable for the working class and New Jersey remains one of the highest taxed states in the country, Jack is the right person needed to make life more affordable for the residents of the Garden State.” Iervasi highlighted the importance of joining a coalition supporting Ciattarelli, emphasizing that he possesses the qualities needed to lead New Jersey effectively.

Ciattarelli’s growing list of Democratic endorsements includes several notable figures, such as North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco, North Bergen Commissioner Allen Pascual, Dover Mayor Jim Dodd, Garfield Mayor Everett Garnto Jr., Branchville Councilman Jeff Lewis, Branchville Mayor Anthony Frato, and former Hudson County Democratic Chairman Anthony Vainieri. Interestingly, Garnto switched his party affiliation to Republican after endorsing Ciattarelli.

The New Era Democrats have a track record of endorsing candidates across party lines when they feel it is justified. In the past, the group has supported Republican candidates like Lee Zeldin during his unsuccessful 2022 gubernatorial campaign in New York, along with Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn). However, the organization has also backed more progressive candidates, including former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

As the campaign progresses, Ciattarelli faces a challenging race against Sherrill, who currently holds a lead in the polls. A recent Rutgers-Eagleton poll of likely voters indicated Sherrill with a 50% to 45% advantage over Ciattarelli. This margin reflects a significant tightening compared to earlier surveys, where Sherrill enjoyed a 20-point lead in June.

The political landscape in New Jersey is evolving as Ciattarelli continues to attract bipartisan support. His strategy of appealing to Democratic voters may play a crucial role in the upcoming election, set to take place on November 7, 2023. As both candidates prepare for the final stretch of campaigning, voter sentiment will be pivotal in determining the outcome in this key gubernatorial race.