Holley breaks ranks, backs Ciattarelli over Sherrill in political shake-up that could signal the end for the Virginia Democrat former Navy Pilot running for governor in New Jersey.
NEWARK, NJ – In a move that sent shockwaves through New Jersey’s political establishment, Assemblyman Jamel Holley publicly endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli over Democratic Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, signaling growing frustration among urban voters and setting the stage for a volatile election season.
Holley, a Democrat and former mayor of Roselle, posted a statement on X declaring that “the time for change has arrived,” describing the rush of support around Sherrill’s campaign as “almost exaggerated beyond plausibility.”
The endorsement marks one of the most notable cross-party moves in recent New Jersey politics, with Holley saying Ciattarelli “represents the forward path we need.”
Key Points
- Assemblyman Jamel Holley endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli over Democrat Mikie Sherrill
- Holley said voters in New Jersey’s urban centers are “fed up” and ready for change
- The move highlights tension within Democratic ranks ahead of a competitive race
Holley’s post drew immediate attention from both parties, as he argued that residents want “real, practical solutions” and urged a focus on issues families “can feel in their daily lives.” His words underscored a growing sense of discontent among working-class and urban voters who feel left behind by traditional political messaging.
A break from party ranks
The endorsement is particularly striking given Holley’s long record as a Democrat in the state legislature. Ciattarelli, the former Republican gubernatorial candidate, has been positioning himself as a moderate voice focused on taxes, education, and economic reform — themes that may resonate with some crossover voters.
While Sherrill has built her campaign around infrastructure, affordability, and protecting federal funding for New Jersey, Holley’s statement suggests skepticism about her approach and a desire for “results that matter.”
The scramble of support for the Mikie Sherrill campaign is unreal & incredibly almost exaggerated beyond plausibility. In New Jersey, especially in our urban centers, people are fed up. We are at a turning point, and many feel that what’s been tried isn’t working. It’s not. You know it. I know it. The time for change has arrived. Jack Ciattarelli represents the forward path we need. It’s time to move past distractions and focus on real, practical solutions that residents can feel in their daily lives. Let’s shift the discussion from noise and gimmicks to results that matter for families across New Jersey. The train has left the station.
Political fallout expected
Democratic insiders are privately expressing frustration over Holley’s defection, calling it a distraction in a high-stakes election year. Some allies, however, see his comments as a warning sign that dissatisfaction within urban districts could become a larger problem for the party heading into November.
Ciattarelli’s team has not yet issued an official statement but is expected to welcome Holley’s support as a boost to his bipartisan appeal.
Momentum shift or one-time headline?
Whether Holley’s endorsement translates into tangible voter movement remains to be seen. But in a state where partisan lines are usually rigid, his break could open new conversations about what “change” means in New Jersey politics.