New Jersey is gearing up for an important primary election this Tuesday, with 11 candidates vying to succeed outgoing Democratic Governor Phil Murphy. This election is significant not just for New Jersey but also for the national political landscape, as it could reflect voter sentiment toward the Trump administration. New Jersey is one of only two states holding a gubernatorial election this year, the other being Virginia.
The state’s constitution mandates that governor elections occur in off-years, so they won’t compete with presidential races. This year, the Democratic primary is particularly competitive. Traditionally, New Jersey has been seen as a blue state, but history shows that when one party holds the governor’s office for two terms, the opposing party often wins the next election. This trend has been consistent since 1962.
Turnout for the primary is expected to be low, which means a small number of voters could have a big impact, especially among Democrats. Interestingly, the number of registered independents in New Jersey equals that of registered Democrats, and their participation could be crucial in the general election.
On the Republican side, former state assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli is the front-runner. He recently received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, which is notable given that Ciattarelli has had a complicated relationship with Trump in the past. In 2016, he criticized Trump, calling him a “charlatan.” However, this time, Ciattarelli has embraced Trump’s support, which could help him in the upcoming election.
Other Republican candidates include conservative talk show host Bill Spadea, who has a closer relationship with Trump but appears to be less favored by the former president for this election cycle.
On the Democratic side, candidates are focusing on how they would resist Trump’s policies. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has gained attention for his activism, notably getting arrested while protesting at an immigration detention center. Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, a moderate, emphasizes her experience fighting Trump in Washington, including her vote to impeach him. Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop aims to attract progressive voters by criticizing Governor Murphy’s approach to Trump.
The issues at stake in this election are significant. Democrats are raising concerns about high property taxes, public transportation issues, and the need for more affordable housing. Ciattarelli, on the Republican side, is advocating for the end of immigrant sanctuary policies and a shift in school funding from urban to suburban districts.
As the primary approaches, all eyes will be on New Jersey to see how these dynamics play out and what they might mean for the future of both parties in the state and beyond.