Jack Ciattarelli Gains Democratic Support in NJ Governor Race

Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli is steadily accumulating endorsements from members of the Democratic Party in his campaign for the New Jersey governorship. The latest endorsement came from the Brooklyn-based political group, New Era Democrats, marking at least eight endorsements from Democratic figures as Ciattarelli seeks to unseat incumbent Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ).

Celia Iervasi, President of New Era Democrats, expressed her group’s support, 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.”

This endorsement highlights Ciattarelli’s appeal across party lines, as he has also received backing from notable Democratic leaders including Nick Sacco, North Bergen Mayor and a well-known figure in Hudson County politics, along with North Bergen Commissioner Allen Pascual, Dover Mayor Jim Dodd, and Garfield Mayor Everett Garnto Jr.. Other supporters include Branchville Councilman Jeff Lewis, Branchville Mayor Anthony Frato, and former Hudson County Democratic Chairman Anthony Vainieri. Garnto notably switched his party affiliation to Republican after endorsing Ciattarelli.

Political Landscape and Polling Insights

The New Era Democrats have a history of endorsing Republican candidates when they believe it is warranted, having previously supported Lee Zeldin in his unsuccessful 2022 bid for Governor of New York and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn). Interestingly, the group has also backed more progressive figures, such as former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

In terms of polling, a recent Rutgers-Eagleton survey indicated that Sherrill holds a narrow lead over Ciattarelli, with 50% of likely voters supporting her compared to 45% for Ciattarelli. This represents a significant narrowing from a more substantial 20-point lead that Sherrill enjoyed in June.

As the election approaches, Ciattarelli’s ability to attract Democratic endorsements may play a pivotal role in shaping the electoral dynamics in New Jersey. With a coalition that spans both parties, his campaign could gain momentum as voters weigh their options in the upcoming gubernatorial race.