TRENTON, N.J. – Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill claimed victory after her second debate with Republican rival Jack Ciattarelli, but the New Jersey GOP says her policies still mirror those of Governor Phil Murphy — and they’re not letting up.
Republicans accused Sherrill this week of “gaslighting voters” over what they call failed green energy programs and pro-immigration sanctuary policies that they argue have strained local budgets and hurt middle-class families.
The has party linked Sherrill to Murphy’s “offshore wind boondoggles” and electric vehicle mandates, saying her continued support for clean energy goals proves she is “out of touch with working New Jerseyans.”
GOP takes aim at green energy goals
Sherrill has been a vocal proponent of the state’s push toward 100% clean energy by 2035, including offshore wind development along the Jersey Shore and expanded electric vehicle use.
In 2022, she hailed the Biden administration’s move to open new offshore wind leases off the coast of the Jersey Shore and the New York Bight, calling it a “crucial step” toward making New Jersey a global leader in renewable energy.
Critics argue that those initiatives come with steep costs and uncertain results. GOP leaders have branded the projects as giveaways to foreign energy companies and say they’ve contributed to rising household expenses and energy instability.
Immigration policy fuels political divide
Republicans also renewed attacks on Sherrill’s backing of Murphy’s Immigrant Trust Directive, which restricts local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Sherrill defended the policy following a failed 2021 legal challenge, praising its protection of immigrant communities.
Her opponent, Ciattarelli, has vowed to roll back that directive and undo Murphy-era energy mandates if elected, saying New Jersey “needs a governor who stands with taxpayers, not Trenton insiders.”
Debate sparks early campaign heat
Following the debate, Sherrill’s campaign touted her performance, emphasizing her commitment to renewable energy and social policy. Ciattarelli’s team countered that Sherrill avoided questions about affordability and the economic impact of her proposals.
She also left a lot on the table, but hid most of her far-left agenda off the table.
Republican officials have also accused Sherrill of limiting opportunities for direct voter engagement, citing her refusal to expand the debate schedule beyond the state’s minimum requirements.
Race tightens as Election Day nears
With polls narrowing, the race for New Jersey governor is entering a combative phase, with each side fighting to frame the narrative before voters head to the polls.
Sherrill remains firm on her environmental and immigration platforms, while Ciattarelli continues to campaign on reducing energy costs and repealing what he calls “Trenton’s overreach.”
