TOMS RIVER, NJ – In a significant pre-election development, Republican mayoral candidate Dan Rodrick received endorsements from two influential figures in New Jersey politics: former gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli and conservative media host Bill Spadea.
The endorsements came as Toms River approaches a pivotal local election, with Ciattarelli and Spadea actively campaigning across the state. Ciattarelli highlighted the election’s importance for sending a message to Trenton and the incumbent governor, urging Republican voter turnout.
Spadea criticized the current developmental plans for Toms River, praising Rodrick as the candidate to prevent high-density urbanization of the area. Ciattarelli and Spadea showed unity in supporting Rodrick and the Ocean County GOP candidates.
“This year’s elections couldn’t be more important,” Ciattarreli said. “We have a real chance to end the Democrats’ death grip on Trenton and send Phil Murphy a powerful message about the direction of our state, but that only happens if Republicans get out to vote for our entire ticket.”
Additionally, Ted Price, a former president of the Toms River Democrats, crossed party lines to endorse Rodrick, aligning with his vision for the town’s future.
“I’m proud to support Chairman Gilmore and all of our Ocean County GOP candidates. Chairman Gilmore has done an excellent job uniting all Republicans in Ocean County,” Spadea said. “Look no further than Toms River and Dan Rodrick for evidence. Dan is a great candidate who will protect downtown Toms River and stop plans to turn it into a city.”
The weekend’s endorsements extended to a rally at a local restaurant, where Rodrick secured support from various Republican dignitaries and clubs, as well as Frank Sadeghi, a candidate for the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.
Rodrick criticized his opponent, Ben Giovine, for policies leading to urbanization and tax increases, citing Giovine’s past tenure on the Toms River School Board.
With the election imminent, Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore affirmed Rodrick as the right choice for mayor. Conservative media influencer Joseph Rullo also endorsed Rodrick, framing the election as a battle against the influence of Democratic Congressman Andy Kim and the alleged agenda of Giovine.
“I’m honored to have the support of the two front runners for governor in New Jersey supporting me,” Rodrick said. “Both Bill Spadea and Jack Ciattarelli are at the forefront of the future of New Jersey and leading the charge to reverse course and make our state more affordable and fighting against the radical policies being forced upon the people of New Jersey by candidates like Ben Giovine.”
Rodrick also has the endorsement of Frank Sadeghi, who is running for a seat on the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.
“I am fully confident Dan will be a great leader for Toms River and a mayor who can bring people together and get the job done,” Sadeghi said at a rally for Rodrick at Shogun restaurant in Toms River. At that event, dignitaries from state senators Robert Singer, Senator James Holzapfel, Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy, and Point Pleasant Mayor Paul Kanitra supported Rodrick.
Toms River residents have the opportunity for early voting at the Ocean County Library until Sunday, with the official Election Day set for Tuesday.