The 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial race is gaining momentum, and recent events have put both major candidates squarely in the spotlight. From high-profile endorsements to packed rallies on the Jersey Shore, the contest between Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill and Republican contender Jack Ciattarelli is already shaping up to be one of the most fiercely fought campaigns in recent state history. For ongoing election coverage, visit Explore New Jersey Politics.
Sherrill Secures Endorsement Amid Poll Lead
A recent poll shows Sherrill holding a 6-point lead over Ciattarelli — a narrow but meaningful advantage in a state where Democrats still hold a nearly 900,000 voter registration lead. Sherrill’s campaign continues to court endorsements, with political figures across state lines weighing in on the race.
At the same time, Sherrill has been drawing sharp contrasts with her opponent on policy issues, most notably on rising electricity costs. Her campaign has placed blame on PJM, the nonprofit that manages the regional power grid, claiming it has hindered efforts to bring more energy online.
Ciattarelli’s GOP Unity Rally at the Jersey Shore
While Sherrill was making news on the endorsement front, Ciattarelli was busy energizing his base. On a sunny Saturday, the Republican candidate hosted a GOP unity rally on the upstairs patio of the Beachcomber Bar along the Jersey Shore Boardwalk.
The event drew more than 400 supporters and featured speeches from past primary rivals, including former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac and former state senator Ed “the Trucker” Durr. Both urged Republicans to unite behind Ciattarelli heading into November.
Notably absent was Bill Spadea, who finished second in the GOP primary, though some of his former supporters were in attendance. Ciattarelli emphasized his New Jersey roots, contrasting them with Sherrill’s Virginia upbringing, and boldly predicted not only a win for governor but also flipping control of the General Assembly by bringing at least 13 Republican Assembly candidates to victory alongside him.
High-Profile Conservative Guests Draw Attention
The rally also featured appearances by conservative radio personality Sid Rosenberg and MAGA activist Scott Presler. Presler claimed a Ciattarelli victory could establish New Jersey as a swing state in future elections.
The Sherrill campaign quickly seized on these appearances, framing the event as evidence of Ciattarelli’s alignment with the party’s MAGA wing. Ciattarelli, for his part, appears confident that embracing former President Trump’s base will energize Republicans and right-leaning independents.
Ciattarelli Heads to Israel
Following the rally, Ciattarelli announced he would be taking a five-day trip to Israel for meetings and other events, stepping away from the campaign trail before returning on August 15. His campaign has framed the trip as part of his commitment to strengthening New Jersey’s international relationships and learning from global economic and security strategies.
Broader Political Landscape in New Jersey
The governor’s race is unfolding against a backdrop of other pressing political developments:
- Electricity Cost Debate – Democrats and Republicans remain at odds over who’s responsible for rising rates. Ciattarelli’s camp points to Governor Murphy’s focus on offshore wind, while Democrats place blame on PJM.
- Legislative Dynamics – The New Jersey Legislature, comprised of a 40-member Senate and 80-member General Assembly, will hold its next elections on November 4, 2025. Republicans have made gains in voter registration, though Democrats still dominate overall numbers.
- Beach Replenishment Funding at Risk – Federal budget negotiations could cut funding for Jersey Shore projects, sparking bipartisan concern among coastal lawmakers.
- New Digital ID Law – Recently enacted legislation will roll out digital driver’s licenses with built-in privacy safeguards, though civil liberties advocates remain wary.
- Top Issues for Voters – Surveys show the economy, housing costs, and cost of living leading the list of voter concerns, followed by immigration, environmental policy, and healthcare access.
What’s Next
With less than three months until Election Day, both Sherrill and Ciattarelli are leaning into sharply different campaign strategies — Sherrill focusing on policy contrasts and targeted endorsements, Ciattarelli on grassroots energy and party unity.
One thing is certain: New Jersey voters can expect a heated, high-turnout race that could set the tone for the state’s political landscape for years to come. Keep up with the latest debates, rallies, and polls at Explore New Jersey Politics.
