Garfield Mayor Shifts Political Allegiance
On Thursday, Mayor Everett E. Garund Jr. of Garfield, New Jersey, announced his decision to part ways with the Democratic Party and endorse Republican Jack Ciattarelli for governor. This marks a significant political shift in one of Bergen County’s largest cities.
The announcement took place during the Ciattarelli Garfield Rally, which, according to Michael Casey, Director of Early Voting Action in New Jersey, attracted hundreds of Garfield residents. It was noted that the rally was quite crowded, indicating substantial support for Ciattarelli from the city’s traditionally Democratic base.
Garund, a retired police officer, had entered the city council as a Democrat in November 2024 and served as president for the local police and charity association for 29 years. His path led him to become mayor after being appointed by a colleague. He has a long history in the community, including roles with the Garfield Housing Authority and the Board of Education.
This switch in party affiliation carries weight, as Garfield is home to over 30,000 residents, making it the fifth largest municipality in Bergen County. In the 2021 elections, Democrat Phil Murphy won the city by a narrow margin, while Donald Trump secured a nearly nine-point victory there in 2024. Garund’s support for Trump during the last presidential election reflects the evolving political landscape in the city.
During the rally, Garund cited reasons for leaving the Democratic Party, stating that the “state is broken.” He pointed to economic pressures and the rising cost of living as significant factors. He criticized Governor Murphy’s policies over the past seven and a half years, calling them responsible for high taxes and soaring electricity bills. “New Jersey deserves better,” he told the attendees, while Ciattarelli emphasized that he represents the right leadership for the current moment.
Earlier this week, Ciattarelli made comments on Fox News, criticizing Murphy’s record and highlighting public dissatisfaction with his administration. He noted that residents are frustrated with the failures of state policy as electricity bills climb higher. Ciattarelli remarked on the support he was receiving from Democratic mayors switching parties, indicating a broader trend.
Garund is the latest Democratic mayor to make such a change, following others like James Dodd from Dover and former Roselle mayor Jamel Holly. Ciattarelli has also garnered backing from various organizations and recognition from former President Donald Trump.
At the rally, Ciattarelli pointed out that discontent with state leadership spans across various voter demographics—not just Republicans. “It’s not just Republicans who are screaming for change,” he remarked, adding that even moderate Democrats and independent voters are beginning to realize the shortcomings of the current administration. His campaign is focused on providing a vision for reducing costs and improving affordability for all residents.
