Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican candidate for governor in New Jersey, gained significant support from a Democratic stronghold in Hudson County on Sunday.
Notably, North Bergen Commissioner Allen Pascal and Marcos Arroyo from West New York publicly endorsed Ciattarelli.
“When Democrats in Hudson County back us, you know change is on the horizon,” Ciattarelli stated after securing their endorsement. “This isn’t just about party lines—it’s about improving New Jersey, and I’m the only candidate with a plan to achieve that.”
Furthermore, former Hudson County Democratic Chairman Anthony Vainieri Jr. is expected to announce his support for Ciattarelli soon, as reported by New Jersey Globe.
Hudson County, which includes cities like Newark, Yonkers, and Jersey City, is typically viewed as a solid Democratic bastion, being the fourth most populous county in the state.
Last November saw a notable drop in voter turnout, plummeting to 61% from 52% four years prior. Although President Trump lost by a considerable margin—62.3% to 34.4%—the decrease in voter engagement tightened the competition in the state.
“Jack knows what hardworking New Jersey families and small businesses need. He embodies leadership based on law enforcement, integrity, common sense, and a commitment to the community,” Pascal mentioned in his remarks about Ciattarelli.
“It’s time for change. We must make New Jersey affordable for all residents again. I’m proud to support him as we strive for a stronger, brighter future for our state.”
Pascal has served as a commissioner since 2002, while Arroyo just took office in 2023 as a commissioner. Their endorsements come at a time when tensions have been high among Democrats in Hudson County.
Previously, Union City Mayor Brian Stack had a contentious rivalry with North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco over competing slates for the state legislature. Stack ultimately prevailed.
Additionally, local Democrats are divided over whether their candidate, Mayor Steve Flop, will support the governor or Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ).
Polls indicate a tightening race between Ciattarelli and Sherrill with less than a month until Election Day.
Sherrill holds a slim 3.3 percentage point lead over Ciattarelli, according to the latest RealClearPolitics poll, an outcome that has surprised the New Jersey Democratic Party.
