TRENTON, N.J. — President Donald Trump holds an edge with approval ratings in New Jersey, matching or exceeding Governor Phil Murphy in key metrics, according to new polling data released this week by Emerson College Polling.
Trump is viewed favorably by 47% of New Jersey voters, with an equal 47% disapproving and 6% remaining neutral. In contrast, Governor Murphy has a lower approval rating, with only 40% approving of his job performance, while 45% disapprove and 15% are neutral.
That is bad news for Democrats.
More than half of voters — 53% — say they want the next governor to work with the Trump administration, compared to 47% who prefer a governor who will oppose it.
Trump has endorsed Jack Ciattarelli, snubbing “MAGA” candidate Bill Spadea over shortcomings and nefarious tactics used by the former AM/FM radio host during his campaign.
Trump said he sees Jack Ciattarelli as the governor he can work most closely with in New Jersey.
“Democrats want the next Governor to stand up to Trump (76%), while Republicans want the next Governor to work with Trump (90%),” said according to the poll. “Independents align more with Republicans in wanting the Governor to work with the president at 60%, compared to 40% who want the Governor to stand up to the president.”
Pocketbook issues dominate as immigration gains traction
The state’s economic outlook remains the dominant issue among voters, with 45% citing the economy as their top concern. Housing affordability ranks second at 12%, followed by threats to democracy at 11%, and immigration policy at 9%.
“Pocketbook issues will be central in the gubernatorial race, with 57% of voters citing the economy or housing affordability as their top concern,” the poll said. “At the same time, immigration may become an issue in the general election as voters support Trump’s deportation policy, even as they believe tariffs will hurt the economy.”
Deport
Support for Trump’s immigration policies remains strong, with 46% of voters saying the recent deportations of undocumented immigrants have made their community more safe. Only 24% believe the deportations have made their community less safe, while 31% believe there has been no impact.
Forty-four percent of respondents support the recent arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka for trespassing at an immigration detention facility. Thirty-eight percent oppose the arrest, while 18% remain undecided or lack enough information.
