TRENTON, NJ – A growing list of Democratic officials has broken ranks to endorse Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, signaling a late shift in New Jersey’s political landscape as polls tighten in the final stretch of the race.
The endorsements, which include mayors, commissioners, and former legislators, have stirred tension within Democratic circles and injected fresh momentum into Ciattarelli’s campaign.
Meanwhile, Mikie Sherrill’s camp has ramped up efforts, bringing in high-profile Democrats from across the nation to rally support as the race narrows.
Key Points
- Multiple Democratic officials have endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli for governor.
- The list includes North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco, Dover Mayor Jim Dodd, and former Assemblyman Jamel Holley.
- Mikie Sherrill’s campaign is drawing national Democratic figures to bolster support.
List of Democratic endorsements
Among those endorsing Ciattarelli are North Bergen Mayor and former State Senator Nick Sacco, Dover Mayor Jim Dodd, Garfield Mayor Everett E. Garnto Jr., Branchville Mayor Anthony Frank, and Branchville Councilman Jeffrey Lewis. Also backing him are North Bergen Commissioner Allen Pascual, Hudson County Commissioner Director Anthony Vainieri Jr., and West New York Commissioner Marcos Arroyo.
The list continues with former Assemblyman Jamel Holley, former Newark Councilman Oscar James, former West New York Mayor and Assemblyman Sal Vega, and former West New York Commissioner Alberto Rodriguez.
National figures rush to aid Sherrill
In contrast, Sherrill’s campaign has called in Democratic heavyweights including former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar to headline rallies and fundraising events.
Campaign aides say the push aims to energize the Democratic base amid Ciattarelli’s late surge.
Tight race sparks last-minute maneuvers
As Election Day approaches, both campaigns are intensifying outreach across key suburban and working-class regions. Ciattarelli’s bipartisan endorsements are being framed as evidence of broad discontent with the state’s Democratic leadership, while Sherrill’s team continues to emphasize unity and progressive policy goals.
The contest, once seen as safely Democratic, now appears increasingly competitive.