Kean Endorses Ciattarelli for Governor in New Jersey

Former New Jersey Governor Thomas Kean, a Republican who has mostly stepped back from politics in recent years, has thrown his support behind Jack Ciattarelli for the governorship. Kean emphasized that New Jersey “needs change,” calling Ciattarelli a “compassionate” and “decent” leader he has known for a long time.

Kean, who served as the 48th governor from 1982 to 1990, comes from a political family with deep roots, including William Livingston, New Jersey’s first constitutional governor, as noted by Rutgers University’s Eagleton Institute of Politics.

On social media, Kean urged voters to back Ciattarelli in the upcoming election. “I haven’t engaged in partisan politics for years, but this year is different,” he stated in a video posted by Ciattarelli. “New Jersey needs change, and we need serious change. Jack Ciattarelli is that change.”

In the video, Kean praised Ciattarelli’s character and work ethic. “There’s a lot to be done in New Jersey,” he remarked. “I have known Jack for 25 years. He is caring, courteous, hard-working, and will make a great governor for New Jersey.”

Ciattarelli has narrowed the gap with his Democratic opponent, U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill, in a competitive race to succeed term-limited Democratic Governor Phil Murphy.

On Monday, Ciattarelli expressed that Kean represents the standard for effective leadership. “Now it’s our turn to get that kind of government back,” he stated. “Get out and vote for real change, real results, and a brighter future for New Jersey.”

Before his governorship, Kean served in the New Jersey State Legislature, becoming the youngest speaker in state history. He championed significant education reforms, boosted environmental protections, and promoted the slogan “New Jersey and You: Perfect Together.”

Kean won reelection in 1985 with nearly 70 percent of the vote, which is one of the largest margins in the state’s history. After leaving office, he became president of Drew University, overseeing a considerable expansion of funding and facilities.

Later in his career, he was appointed by then-President George W. Bush to chair the 9/11 Commission in 2002, which raised his profile nationally and solidified his reputation as one of New Jersey’s most respected public figures.

New Jersey and Virginia are the only states that hold gubernatorial elections the year after a presidential election, and these races often receive national attention as early indicators of voter sentiment for upcoming midterm elections.