New Jersey’s political landscape is ablaze this week as the race for governor enters its final stretch and residents face the last day to register to vote before the November 4 election. From heated campaign rhetoric and legal threats to national political figures descending on the Garden State, every corner of Trenton, Newark, and beyond is feeling the intensity of a contest that has drawn national attention. With just three weeks remaining, both major parties are going all-in to sway voters and define the future of the state. For full coverage of the latest developments across the Garden State’s political scene, visit Explore New Jersey Politics.

Today marks a crucial date for New Jersey residents: October 14 is the official deadline to register to vote in the upcoming gubernatorial and state Assembly elections. Election officials have emphasized the importance of ensuring registration information is accurate and up to date, as turnout is expected to surge given the competitive nature of the statewide races.

The gubernatorial showdown between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli has evolved into one of the most closely watched contests in the country. With New Jersey and one other state hosting gubernatorial elections this year, both parties are pouring millions into advertising, field operations, and get-out-the-vote efforts. National PACs and political strategists have labeled the Garden State a key test of post-presidential cycle momentum heading into 2026.

Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli continues to face scrutiny over his connection to former President Donald Trump. During a recent debate, Ciattarelli gave Trump an “A” grade for his presidency, despite publicly insisting he’s “part of the New Jersey movement, not the MAGA movement.” Democrats have seized on those remarks, framing him as out of step with moderate and suburban voters who have shifted away from Trump-era politics.

Meanwhile, Democratic contender Mikie Sherrill is intensifying her offensive, directly tying Ciattarelli to the state’s opioid crisis. Her campaign alleges that Ciattarelli’s earlier legislative record worsened the epidemic, while his team has fired back, calling the accusations “defamatory” and threatening legal action. The exchange has added even more fire to a race already defined by its sharp contrasts in tone, policy, and personality.

Outgoing Governor Phil Murphy has also found himself in headlines this week after criticism surfaced regarding his overseas trip to Europe from October 9–14. The timing drew backlash from state officials and residents alike, as heavy flooding impacted parts of New Jersey during his absence. Murphy’s staff defended the trip, describing it as a personal commitment and emphasizing that the governor maintained contact with state agencies throughout.

Another hot-button issue this election cycle has been vaccine policy. Both gubernatorial hopefuls say they support vaccine requirements for school-aged children, but their stances diverge sharply when it comes to exemptions. Ciattarelli favors maintaining broader medical and religious opt-outs, while Sherrill has called for tightening exemptions to prevent future outbreaks and strengthen public health safeguards. The debate has struck a chord among parents and educators, particularly as vaccine legislation continues to stir controversy nationwide.

The campaign trail will see a high-profile boost this week as Maryland Governor Wes Moore travels to New Jersey to campaign alongside Sherrill. Moore, Maryland’s first Black governor and one of the rising stars in national Democratic politics, plans to join Sherrill, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and West Ward Democratic Committee Chairman Chigozie Onyema for canvassing and voter outreach events in Essex County. The former U.S. Army officer and Rhodes Scholar is expected to focus on connecting with veterans, students, and working families — three groups seen as crucial to Democratic turnout in urban areas.

Polls show Sherrill maintaining a narrow edge, averaging a three-point lead heading into the final three weeks. The top issues shaping voter sentiment include affordability, immigration, and housing — perennial concerns that have once again risen to the forefront amid inflation and rising living costs. Sherrill has promised to expand affordable housing and support tax relief programs, while Ciattarelli has positioned himself as the fiscal conservative promising to rein in state spending and lower property taxes.

Beyond the governor’s race, New Jersey’s political map remains dynamic, with major developments in local and legislative contests. The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) has announced a new six-figure investment to defend the party’s majority in the General Assembly, a sign that Democrats are taking no chances down-ballot.

In Gloucester County, a heated legal dispute over ballot design has added another layer of complexity to the election process. A state appeals court ruled that the county must redesign its general election ballots in a traditional column format, overturning a lower court decision that allowed office-block layouts. The court found that the county’s previous approach violated state election laws, prompting a scramble among local election officials to comply before printing deadlines.

Elsewhere, Council President Anand Shah, a Democrat, faces new corruption charges stemming from his alleged ties to an illegal gambling operation. Shah, who was first arrested in April, has been indicted by a state grand jury for additional offenses that could lead to significant prison time if convicted. His legal troubles have rippled through municipal politics and intensified calls for greater oversight in local government.

Environmental politics are also back in the spotlight as several advocacy groups have filed a lawsuit against the Delaware River Basin Commission, challenging its decision to extend a permit for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export dock in Gibbstown. Environmentalists argue the expansion would increase emissions and threaten local ecosystems, while supporters claim it will create jobs and strengthen energy exports. The project has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over New Jersey’s climate and economic future.

With only three weeks left before voters head to the polls, the tension in New Jersey’s political sphere continues to mount. Both parties are betting big, candidates are sharpening their closing arguments, and national figures are descending on the state in a sign of just how consequential this year’s election could be.

As the clock ticks toward Election Day, New Jersey stands once again at the center of America’s political spotlight — a bellwether state whose choices will echo far beyond its borders. Stay updated on every development, candidate move, and statewide decision with Explore New Jersey Politics, your destination for in-depth coverage of the Garden State’s ever-evolving political landscape.