Democratic Council Member Questions Gubernatorial Candidate’s Suitability

OLD BRIDGE, N.J. — A Democratic city council member in New Jersey has raised concerns regarding Rep. Mikie Sherrill, the party’s candidate for governor, stating that she “is not cut out for the job.”

Jeff Lewis, a councilman from Branchville, is among at least 13 Democrats in the state expressing their support for Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the upcoming election.

“Honestly, she hasn’t impressed me at all,” Lewis remarked. He criticized her campaign for focusing on her credentials as a helicopter pilot and a mother of four, suggesting that her promises, like reducing electricity bills, might be unrealistic. “I think she’s going to struggle with that,” he added.

Lewis also expressed confidence in Ciattarelli’s chances of winning, saying he has the necessary support to take over the governor’s mansion in Trenton.

While the latest poll indicates that Sherrill holds a 3.2-point lead, the race appears to be quite close between her and Ciattarelli, according to a RealClearPolitics vote tally.

Interestingly, a recent poll from Quantus Insights showing Sherrill ahead found that most New Jerseyans believe their peers support Ciattarelli.

In the last gubernatorial race in 2021, Ciattarelli outperformed expectations, coming within 3.2 points of defeating the Democratic incumbent, Phil Murphy, who is now prevented from running.

Despite feeling disillusioned with the party, Lewis remains a registered Democrat, explaining, “My mom was a Democrat, so when it came to registration, that just happened automatically. But that doesn’t mean I’ll always align my votes with the party.”

Recent months have seen a rise in registered Republican voters in New Jersey, contributing to a more competitive political landscape. Lewis noted, “People are getting a bit weary of the same old approach.”

Lewis is not alone; he’s supported Ciattarelli alongside several other Democratic mayors and officials, including North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco and Branchville Mayor Anthony Frato.

Ciattarelli has embraced his bipartisan support during his campaign, stating, “When Democrats start supporting Republican candidates, you can see the desire for change among the people,” at a rally in Old Bridge.

As Election Day approaches, Sherrill is receiving backing from notable Democrats such as former President Barack Obama and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.