As New Jersey approaches its 2025 gubernatorial election, the state’s relationship with Israel and the concerns of its Jewish community have become focal points in the campaigns. Candidates from both major parties are articulating their positions on these issues, aiming to resonate with voters who prioritize strong ties to Israel and robust measures against antisemitism.
Jack Ciattarelli: Strengthening Ties with Israel
Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli has emphasized his commitment to Israel, highlighting his upcoming visit to the country as a demonstration of solidarity with the Jewish community. His campaign underscores the importance of a governor who actively supports Israel and stands against antisemitism. Ciattarelli’s stance is particularly significant in areas with substantial Jewish populations, where his positions may influence voter sentiment.
- Planned to visit Israel as part of his campaign, seeking to strengthen the relationship between New Jersey and Israel.
- Focuses on exploring opportunities for economic growth, technology partnerships, and cultural exchange with Israel.
- Aims to attract Israeli investment and encourage Israeli tech companies to establish a presence in New Jersey.
- Seeks to enhance the New Jersey-Israel relationship, which he believes has regressed in recent years.
- Expresses admiration for Israeli innovation, particularly in areas like cybersecurity, agriculture, and medical technology.
Mikie Sherrill: Navigating Complex Relations
Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill has faced scrutiny over her record concerning Israel. While she has been a proponent of Israel in many respects, certain votes and positions have led to mixed reactions from the Jewish community. Sherrill’s campaign is working to clarify her stance and address concerns, aiming to assure voters of her commitment to maintaining strong ties with Israel.
- Strongly supports Israel’s right to defend itself, particularly in response to attacks by Hamas.
- Voted for bipartisan legislation reaffirming U.S. support for Israel and providing resources like Iron Dome funding.
- Emphasizes the deep ties between New Jersey and Israeli communities and supports strengthening economic and educational partnerships.
- Has traveled to Israel and witnessed the connections firsthand.
- Advocates for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and a negotiated cease-fire.
- Stresses the importance of humanitarian aid delivery to innocent Palestinians in Gaza
Other Gubernatorial Candidates
- Josh Gottheimer: A centrist Democrat, Gottheimer has a history of supporting Israel and combating antisemitism. His platform includes initiatives to strengthen New Jersey’s relationship with Israel and address issues pertinent to the Jewish community.
- Steven Fulop: The mayor of Jersey City, Fulop has not prominently featured Israel-related policies in his campaign. His focus remains on local governance and urban development.
- Ras Baraka: As the mayor of Newark, Baraka’s campaign has not highlighted foreign policy issues, including relations with Israel.
- Sean Spiller: The president of the New Jersey Education Association, Spiller has not articulated a clear position on Israel during his campaign.
- Steve Sweeney: The former Senate president has not been active in the current gubernatorial race and has not expressed positions on Israel-related matters.
- Stephen Zielinski (Green Party): Supports the two-state solution and believes that Israel should abide by the United Nations resolutions.
- Vic Kaplan (Libertarian Party): Has not expressed specific views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but generally advocates for a non-interventionist foreign policy.
- Joanne Kuniansky (Socialist Workers Party): Strongly supports Israel’s right to exist as a refuge for Jewish people and defends Israel’s military actions against Hamas and potential threats from Iran.
- Gerardo Cedrone (Independent) and Karen Zaletel (Independent): Information about their stances on Israel is not readily available.
Voter Considerations
For voters in New Jersey, especially those within the Jewish community, the candidates’ positions on Israel and antisemitism are critical factors in the upcoming election. Understanding each candidate’s stance can guide informed voting decisions.
To explore more about the candidates’ policies and other political issues, visit our Politics section.
