TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy said the New Jersey governor’s race remains “really close,” describing it as part of a broader trend of political division nationwide.

Speaking on Ask Governor Murphy, he noted that former President Donald Trump had narrowed his loss margin in several Democratic states — including New Jersey, Maryland, New York, Illinois, and California — during the 2024 election cycle.

“I’d rather be playing Mikey’s hand than Jack’s hand, but this is a really close race,” Murphy said, referring to Democratic candidate Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli. “We’re so divided, so sort of on the knife’s edge — a little bit this way, a little bit that way.”

Murphy said the competitiveness reflects polarization across the country, emphasizing that gubernatorial elections, unlike congressional races, tend to stay tight.

He issued what he called a “nonpartisan plea” for voter participation:

“I don’t care who you’re voting for — vote,” he said. “Early in-person voting starts on October 25. Tammy and I have voted that way since it’s been on the books. It’s easy-peasy.”

Murphy reminded listeners that Election Day is November 4, urging residents not to “assume anything away” given the state’s close polling margins.