Ciattarelli Narrows Gap in New Jersey Governor Race

Former New Jersey Representative Jack Ciattarelli, the GOP candidate, has significantly reduced the lead in the upcoming 2025 governor’s race against Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill, according to recent polling data.

In a recent Rutgers Eagleton survey, Ciattarelli has improved his position, moving from a 20-point deficit, as seen in July, to 35% of the projected votes, closing the gap with Sherrill, who is currently at 44%. This improvement comes after losing to incumbent Governor Phil Murphy in 2021.

Despite Sherrill’s lead, the race remains dynamic with only about 75 days left until the election. “As summer closed and the campaign heated up, the competition has tightened,” noted Ashley Conning, director of the Rutgers Eagleton Center. “Sherrill still holds an advantage, but it’s crucial to recognize the significant number of undecided voters that could influence the outcome.”

Ciattarelli, who has received backing from former President Donald Trump, aims to appeal to minority voters and those earning below $50,000 annually. New Jersey leaned Republican in the last election, with Trump winning by a slim 6-point margin.

Among voters without college degrees, Ciattarelli is performing better, leading Sherrill 45% to 34%. However, Sherrill takes the lead among voters with college degrees and those earning over $150,000.

Sherrill, serving her fourth term in Congress, managed to secure the Democratic nomination with only 34% of the vote in a crowded primary. Recent polling from Fairleigh Dickinson University also shows her leading by single digits, with a 47% to 42% advantage over Republicans.

There is a bit of skepticism regarding polling accuracy from the last gubernatorial election, suggesting that Ciattarelli could further close the gap in this election season. A survey conducted by Rutgers from July 31 to August 11 indicates a margin of error of 3.7%.