Former Navy pilot to face Ciattarelli in competitive New Jersey governor’s race

Rep. Mikie Sherrill emerged victorious in the Democratic gubernatorial primary in New Jersey on Tuesday, paving the way for a fierce battle against Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli in the upcoming general election. The Associated Press has projected Sherrill as the winner of the primary, positioning her as a strong contender to succeed Gov. Phil Murphy, who is term-limited this year.

Sherrill faced tough competition from a crowded field of Democratic candidates, including notable figures such as Newark mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City mayor Steve Fulop, and New Jersey Education Association president Sean Spiller. However, Sherrill’s background as a U.S. Navy veteran and former prosecutor set her apart and resonated with voters.

Throughout the campaign, both Democratic and Republican candidates in New Jersey highlighted the influence of President Donald Trump on the race. Democrats positioned themselves as anti-Trump, while Republicans, including Ciattarelli, sought to align themselves closely with the former president. Trump’s endorsement of Ciattarelli added a significant dynamic to the campaign, as both parties sought to differentiate themselves based on their stance towards Trump’s policies.

New Jersey’s gubernatorial race, along with Virginia’s, is seen as a key indicator of voter sentiment towards Trump’s second term, ahead of the crucial midterm elections next year. Democratic candidates in New Jersey emphasized their opposition to Trump’s executive orders and immigration policies, aligning themselves as a bulwark against the Republican agenda.

As the primary unfolded, the ongoing protests and riots in Los Angeles became a focal point of discussion for the candidates. Sherrill and her fellow Democrats condemned Trump’s response to the situation, with Sherrill emphasizing her commitment to public safety and law enforcement. Gottheimer criticized Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard without the governor’s request, calling it chaotic and unwarranted.

The support for Newark mayor Ras Baraka, who made headlines for his arrest at an ICE facility, also became a rallying point for Democratic candidates. Baraka’s lawsuit against federal officials further underscored the tension between state and federal policies on immigration.

In the general election, Sherrill will face off against Ciattarelli, who narrowly lost to Murphy in 2021. Ciattarelli has framed his candidacy as a referendum on the Democratic leadership in New Jersey, promising a change in direction for the state.

The outcome of the gubernatorial race in New Jersey will not only determine the state’s future leadership but also serve as a barometer of political trends ahead of the 2026 midterms. Both parties are gearing up for a fierce battle, with Trump’s influence looming large over the campaign.

As the race intensifies, voters in New Jersey will have a crucial decision to make, shaping the trajectory of the state for years to come. Stay tuned for more updates on the gubernatorial race in New Jersey.