New Jersey Governor’s Race: Polling Insights
Republican Jack Ciattarelli might have a chance to win the New Jersey governor’s race this fall by focusing his campaign on issues related to transgenderism, according to a recent poll.
A survey conducted for the Conservative American Principles Project revealed that 68% of voters in New Jersey believe that biological boys who identify as transgender should not compete in girls’ sports, contrasting sharply with only 22% in favor of such participation.
Additionally, over 70% of residents oppose using taxpayer money for gender transition or sexual reassignment surgeries for minors, with just 20% showing support.
Moreover, about 60% of those surveyed disapprove of public elementary schools teaching about sexual orientation and transgender ideologies, while only 31% support these educational topics, according to a separate survey by Cygnal involving 500 voters.
Ciattarelli is set to face off against Rep. Mikie Sherrill, the Democratic candidate, who has openly supported transgender rights. They are contending for the seat currently held by Phil Murphy, a Democrat who is unable to run again due to term limits.
In the earlier poll, Sherrill was leading Ciattarelli, 50% to 43%, with 7% of voters still undecided.
As the campaign progresses, Sherrill’s stance on transgender rights and other issues will likely be under increased scrutiny.
In one statement, Sherrill emphasized that girls should compete in girls’ sports, reiterating her commitment to women’s sports and safety.
Furthermore, Sherrill has supported policies that critics argue threaten women’s privacy, with claims that they would allow biological males and transgender individuals access to women’s restrooms and locker rooms.
Opponents of Sherrill also argue that she seeks to limit therapists from discussing biological sex with children, promoting gender ideology against parental wishes.
Once voters were informed about Sherrill’s positions, the race tightened slightly to 46% for Sherrill and 45% for Ciattarelli.
Terry Schilling, president of the American Principles Project, stated that New Jersey families are growing weary of what he termed a “far-left” agenda, calling for unity to bring common sense back to the state.
Polling data suggests Ciattarelli’s route to victory hinges on addressing what many perceive as cultural issues, reflecting deep concerns among voters in traditionally Democratic states.
Voters also expressed significant worries about broader issues, with 53% indicating the state is headed in the wrong direction, while only 35% felt it was moving in the right way.
Economic concerns, including inflation, living costs, and taxation, were mentioned by 53% of voters as the most pressing issues, with illegal immigration and border security as a priority for another 11%.
The survey was conducted by Cygnal for the American Principles Project from June 19 to 20, involving 500 voters with a margin of error of ±4.36%. Participants were contacted through online panels and mobile text messages.
