PRINCETON – When he was on the campaign trail, he said he was doing it all for the good people of New Jersey. It turns out, he was doing it all for himself.
Not only has June’s primary election losing candidate, Bill Spadea, vanished since his overwhelming defeat in June, but he still hasn’t endorsed the Republican candidate for governor, Jack Ciattarelli.
Word is, Bill is looking for a deal for himself and his campaign consultant George Gilmore, the convicted felon tax cheat who serves as the Ocean County GOP Chairman.
No deal, no endorsement is what insiders are telling Shore News Network.
It’s been a month since the New Jersey gubernatorial primary, and the political landscape is still buzzing with speculation.
One lingering question remains: Why hasn’t Bill Spadea, the losing candidate, publicly endorsed Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican nominee for governor?
For those unfamiliar, Spadea, a conservative radio host and political commentator, ran a spirited campaign in the Republican primary, rallying a dedicated base with his outspoken views and outsider appeal.
Meanwhile, Jack Ciattarelli, a seasoned politician and former assemblyman, clinched the nomination with a platform blending fiscal conservatism and pragmatic governance. In a state like New Jersey, where Republican unity is critical to challenge the Democratic stronghold, endorsements from prominent figures like Spadea could carry significant weight. Yet, as of now, Spadea has remained conspicuously silent.
The context of Spadea’s campaign was rooted in a populist, anti-establishment message that resonated with voters frustrated by the status quo.
His rhetoric often contrasted with Ciattarelli’s more traditional Republican approach, creating a visible ideological divide within the party.
While Ciattarelli has focused on uniting the GOP base to take on Mikie Sherrill, Spadea’s lack of endorsement raises questions about lingering tensions or strategic calculations.
Some political analysts suggest Spadea may be withholding support to maintain his brand as an independent voice. Others say he just has sour grapes and is embarassed about how bad ‘three time loser’ Jack Ciattarelli defeated him.
As a radio personality with a loyal audience, endorsing Ciattarelli could risk alienating supporters who view the nominee as too moderate.
Others speculate that Spadea might be eyeing future opportunities—perhaps another run for office or a larger role in conservative media—where staying neutral keeps his options open.
Whatever the plan is, the people of New Jersey don’t seem to hold much importance in it.
In a state where Democrats have held the governor’s mansion for eight years, Republican unity is paramount.
Ciattarelli’s campaign has emphasized broad appeal, targeting suburban voters while maintaining conservative principles on issues like taxes and education. A public nod from Spadea could help energize the conservative grassroots, particularly in South Jersey, where Spadea’s influence is strong. Without it, Ciattarelli risks losing momentum among the party’s more vocal activist base.
It could also convince those who Spadea told to stay home in 2021 to come out and vote, to keep New Jersey from falling deeping into the far left progressive movement under Sherrill.
Spadea’s silence isn’t just a personal decision—it’s a signal to his supporters.
On platforms like X, some of his followers have expressed frustration with the GOP establishment, with posts suggesting they might sit out the general election if Ciattarelli doesn’t address their concerns.
This could spell trouble in a tight race against Sherrill, who has significant resources and name recognition.
As the November election approaches, all eyes will be on whether Spadea breaks his silence.
Actually they’re not. Few people actually care what he has to say at this point, because it’s clear this entire ruse was about his brand and his fundraising…and of course, the money.
Spadea paid himself $265,000 through his non-profit Common Sense Club throughout his political journey, and he continues to pay himself, according to the last ELEC reports on file with the state of New Jersey.
A public endorsement, even if lukewarm, could help bridge the gap between the GOP’s populist and establishment wings.