Trump Endorses Ciattarelli While Criticizing Sherrill

On Thursday, former President Donald Trump rallied behind New Jersey Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, while simultaneously taking jabs at his opponent, Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill.

In a post, Trump exclaimed, “Incredible!!! New polls indicate Jack Ciattarelli is, well, not competent in the New Jersey governor’s race,” referring to Sherrill after she apparently misheard her name as “Mike.” Previously, earlier this year, Trump endorsed Ciattarelli before his triumph in the Republican primary.

“Jack is focused on reducing crime and taxes—two issues that resonate deeply with voters today,” Trump stated. He further asserted, “He could be an exceptional governor, while Sherrill seems to favor open borders, transgender policies for everyone, and policies that many believe have harmed the nation. She’s backing a potential Communist mayor of New York City!”

Ciattarelli, who ran for governor in 2021 but lost to Democratic incumbent Phil Murphy, has secured the endorsement of the New Jersey State Police Union in this election cycle. It’s worth noting that Murphy, having held office since early 2018, is unable to run for a third term in this year’s election after winning the previous two contests.

As Election Day approaches on November 4th, early voting kicks off on October 25th. Mail-in ballots have already been dispatched to voters in accordance with state dates. It’s intriguing to see how this election will unfold amidst these swirling political dynamics.

Interestingly, the issue of support for trans athletes in women’s sports has surfaced repeatedly in discussions surrounding the Democratic candidates. In New Jersey, the state constitution stipulates that governors who have served two consecutive terms can’t run for the office again until January, four years after their second term ends.

Ciattarelli has received recognition from the New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police, a group that had backed Murphy back in 2016 but abstained from endorsing him during the 2021 reelection bid. Reflecting on his motivations, he mentioned, “As a governor, I’m committed to supporting law enforcement and their families. Through collaboration, we can enhance safety across New Jersey.”