TRENTON, N.J. — Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli said Monday he plans to campaign alongside President Donald Trump as he seeks the GOP nomination and a rematch against Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy in November. Earlier this month, Trump announced his endorsement of Ciattarelli in the June 10th GOP primary election.
Speaking with Fox News, Ciattarelli said he looked forward to joining Trump on the campaign trail in New Jersey. “He is very popular in New Jersey and he realizes how important New Jersey is,” Ciattarelli said.
Ciattarelli narrowly lost to Murphy in 2021, falling short by just over three percentage points in an election that surprised many political observers. He credited that race with helping to energize Republicans statewide, noting that the party gained seats in the New Jersey legislature in the aftermath.
The former state assemblyman said he believes Trump’s performance in New Jersey during the 2024 presidential race has opened a window for further GOP advances this year. Trump lost the state by roughly 16 points in 2020, but GOP turnout surged in key counties in 2024.
Ciattarelli also expressed confidence about winning both the June 10 Republican primary and the general election, positioning himself as a unifying figure among GOP voters.
Republicans eye gains in Democratic stronghold
Ciattarelli’s remarks come as Republicans seek to expand their reach in traditionally Democratic-leaning states. New Jersey has not elected a Republican governor since Chris Christie won re-election in 2013.
While Trump remains a polarizing figure in New Jersey, his continued influence among Republican voters is expected to play a major role in the upcoming primary. Ciattarelli’s public alignment with the president signals a shift from his more distanced stance during the 2021 race.
The June 10 primary will determine who takes on Murphy’s successor or potential re-election campaign, depending on whether the current term-limited governor seeks higher office or endorses a successor.
Ciattarelli’s team has not yet announced specific dates for joint appearances with Trump.
