With just two months until New Jersey voters head to the polls for the Republican primary, the race for the GOP nomination for governor is picking up steam — and so is the intensity among the contenders.
At a recent event in Morris County, former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli emerged with a symbolic early boost, winning a “straw poll” endorsement from the county’s Republican Clubs Alliance. While not critical for his campaign, the show of support further cements his position as the current frontrunner.
🗳️ Ciattarelli Eyes the Bigger Picture
Ciattarelli, who came close to unseating Governor Phil Murphy in the 2021 general election, is campaigning like the nominee already. He’s focused on building a broader coalition, often speaking not just about securing the governorship but helping to sweep in Republican candidates for the State Assembly as well.
Once seen as a moderate and not closely aligned with Donald Trump, Ciattarelli appears to have repaired relations with the former president’s supporters. A photo with Trump, endorsements from conservative figures like Senators Mike Testa and Joe Pennacchio, and his public support for Trump’s controversial tariffs all point to an effort to bridge GOP factions.
🔥 Spadea Turns Up the Heat
But not everyone is buying it.
Conservative media personality Bill Spadea has taken a sharply combative stance, portraying Ciattarelli as a political chameleon. In social media posts, Spadea accuses him of betraying conservative values during his time in the state Assembly — citing votes on Sandy relief, gun buybacks, and physician-assisted suicide.
Spadea’s message is clear: Ciattarelli is “bought by the elites” and “rejected by the people,” referencing his past losses in both the 2017 primary and the 2021 general election.
👀 A Third Challenger Emerges
Also on the primary ballot is Mario Kranjac, former mayor of Englewood Cliffs. A self-proclaimed “Trumpy mayor,” Kranjac could siphon votes from Spadea’s base, adding a layer of complication for the conservative firebrand. Spadea attempted to challenge Kranjac’s petition signatures but came up short — prompting Kranjac to liken Spadea to Adam Schiff, a frequent target of criticism among Trump supporters.
🗣️ Bramnick Stands His Ground
Meanwhile, Jon Bramnick, a longtime legislator known for his moderate tone, continues to run as the pragmatic choice for November. Not a Trump loyalist, Bramnick’s pitch is based on electability: “I know how to beat far-left Democrats with a bold, common sense agenda,” he recently said.
His promise to “make NJ Transit run on time” might be tongue-in-cheek, but his campaign message is serious: he’s positioning himself as the candidate who can win over swing voters in a deep blue state.
“Did you know Jon Bramnick was re-elected in a district Biden won by 17 points?” he frequently reminds voters.
📆 Looking Ahead
With the primary set for June 10, the next several weeks promise heated debates, bold promises, and plenty of political maneuvering. While the focus is now on the intra-party battles, all eyes will ultimately shift to November 4, when the real test comes against the Democrats.
🗳️ Stay tuned to Explore New Jersey for the latest in local politics, upcoming debates, and election coverage leading up to the 2025 gubernatorial race.