Trenton, NJ – The battle for New Jersey’s governor’s office erupted this week after Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill declared she would push LGBTQ curriculum in state schools without allowing parents to opt their children out — a stance her Republican opponent Jack Ciattarelli swiftly turned into a campaign ad.
Ciattarelli’s latest spot features only Sherrill’s own words on the issue, a move that has ignited outrage among LGBTQ advocacy groups who say the Republican is recycling old attacks to divide voters.
Ciattarelli opposes the forced LGBTQ studies plan being pushed by Sherrill, and now gay rights activists are livid.
Brielle Winslow-Majette, deputy director of Garden State Equality, blasted the ad as “fear-mongering and misinformation,” citing Ciattarelli’s history of opposing marriage equality and protections for transgender youth. “New Jersey deserves leaders who uplift children — not weaponize our identities for political gain,” Winslow-Majette said.
Christian Fuscarino, executive director of Garden State Equality, accused Ciattarelli of using “the Trump playbook” to strip away representation in classrooms. “The truth is inclusive lessons save lives,” Fuscarino said. “While Ciattarelli clings to politics of hate, we’re organizing, fighting back, and standing with Rep. Sherrill.”
The ad marks a sharp escalation in the governor’s race, highlighting a deep divide over education, parental rights, and the future of LGBTQ visibility in New Jersey schools.
Key Points
- Mikie Sherrill said she would push LGBTQ curriculum in NJ schools without a parental opt-out option.
- Jack Ciattarelli released an ad featuring only Sherrill’s statement, triggering backlash from advocacy groups.
- Garden State Equality leaders condemned Ciattarelli, accusing him of fear-mongering and erasing LGBTQ history.
The governor’s race is turning classrooms into the fiercest battleground in the Garden State.