As New Jersey edges closer to its 2025 gubernatorial election, the political spotlight is intensifying—and former President Donald Trump has once again made it clear who he’s backing. During a high-energy tele-rally on Monday night, Trump offered his “full-throated” endorsement of Jack Ciattarelli, firmly shutting down speculation that he supports any other Republican contender.
“Other people are going around saying I endorsed them — that’s not true,” Trump said, in a thinly veiled jab at Bill Spadea, one of Ciattarelli’s primary opponents.
While Trump’s blunt style is nothing new to political observers, the format of this event—a remote rally beamed into supporters’ phones—underscored how digital campaigning is shaping the race. But make no mistake: the message was crystal clear. Trump called Ciattarelli a “friend” and the candidate best suited to “Make New Jersey Great Again.”
Setting the Tone for 2025
The tele-rally came just ahead of early voting, and the timing wasn’t lost on voters. Trump painted New Jersey as a state in crisis, citing rising crime, economic decline, and public school “indoctrination” as central issues that only a change in leadership could fix.
He emphasized Ciattarelli’s roots in the state, including his early political career as a Raritan Borough councilman—an unusual mention that likely marks the first time a U.S. president has referenced the small Somerset County town in a campaign context.
“He’s a proven leader with a real record. He’s not just talking the talk—he’s walked the walk right here in New Jersey,” Trump said.
In what could signal a new policy focus, Trump highlighted Ciattarelli’s proposal for a 1% property tax cap, a departure from the 2% cap implemented under former Governor Chris Christie. If enacted, it would mark a significant shift in how the state handles its persistently high property taxes.
Ciattarelli Eyes the General Election
For his part, Ciattarelli embraced the endorsement with gratitude, pledging not to “let the president down.” He added that he’s already setting his sights beyond the primary, declaring his general election campaign will begin June 11, just one day after the primary ends.
This confidence speaks volumes about Ciattarelli’s standing within the party, but also raises eyebrows about the strength of his competition—especially Bill Spadea, who has built a campaign rooted in aligning himself with the MAGA movement.
Spadea has openly claimed to be the most “Trump-aligned” candidate in the race, yet Trump’s words left little doubt about where he stands. The former president’s rejection of any ambiguity sends a sharp message to Republican voters: there is only one candidate in this race with his blessing.
What It Means for Voters
The endorsement isn’t just symbolic—it’s strategic. With Trump remaining a dominant force among GOP voters, his nod can dramatically shift momentum in a competitive primary. It also draws a sharper contrast between the Republican and Democratic fields, with six Democratic hopefuls also in the race and already clashing over issues such as immigration, energy policy, and education reform.
As New Jersey heads into one of its most consequential elections in recent years, voters are left with a growing list of issues and candidates to evaluate. From environmental legislation to tax reform and the future of schooling, the stakes are high—and the endorsements are starting to define the playing field.
Stay tuned as we continue to bring you in-depth coverage of the 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial race, key policy debates, and exclusive insights that matter to residents across the Garden State.
