Jack Ciattarelli Gains Democratic Endorsements in NJ Gubernatorial Race

Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli is amassing a notable list of endorsements from members of the Democratic Party in his campaign for the governorship of New Jersey. The latest support comes from the New Era Democrats, a center-left political group based in Brooklyn, marking at least eight Democratic endorsements for Ciattarelli as he seeks to unseat incumbent Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ).

In a statement, Celia Iervasi, President of the New Era Democrats, expressed confidence in Ciattarelli’s ability to address the economic challenges facing New Jersey. “We are proud to endorse Jack Ciattarelli for Governor of New Jersey,” Iervasi stated. She highlighted the growing affordability crisis for the working class in the state, emphasizing that Ciattarelli is the right choice to make life more affordable for residents.

Iervasi also noted the group’s eagerness to join a coalition supporting Ciattarelli in the upcoming election, asserting, “We know that he is the right person to lead New Jersey in the right direction.”

Other notable Democratic endorsements for Ciattarelli include North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco, North Bergen Commissioner Allen Pascual, Dover Mayor Jim Dodd, Garfield Mayor Everett Garnto Jr., Branchville Councilman Jeff Lewis, Branchville Mayor Anthony Frato, and former Hudson County Democratic Chairman Anthony Vainieri. Garnto notably switched his party affiliation to Republican following his endorsement of Ciattarelli.

Competitive Landscape in the Gubernatorial Race

The New Era Democrats have a history of endorsing Republican candidates when they feel it is warranted. In the past, the group supported Lee Zeldin during his unsuccessful bid for the New York governorship in 2022, as well as Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, representing Staten Island and Brooklyn. Interestingly, the group has also backed more progressive figures, including former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Polls indicate a competitive race ahead. A recent Rutgers-Eagleton survey revealed that Sherrill holds a narrow lead over Ciattarelli, with 50% of likely voters supporting her compared to 45% for Ciattarelli. This marks a significant decrease from the 20-point advantage Sherrill had over Ciattarelli in June.

As the campaign progresses, the endorsements from Democratic figures may play a crucial role in shaping voter perception and influencing the outcome of the election, scheduled for November 2023. Ciattarelli’s ability to attract bipartisan support suggests a potentially shifting political landscape in New Jersey.