UPDATE: Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli cast his early vote today in Bridgewater Township, New Jersey, exuding confidence ahead of the crucial November 5 election. Surrounded by enthusiastic supporters, Ciattarelli declared, “We’ve got four days left, let’s finish strong, let’s win, and let’s change the direction of Jersey.”
Despite challenging weather conditions, with strong winds and overcast skies, energy was palpable outside the Bridgewater Municipal Court as Ciattarelli rallied his base. He urged supporters to mobilize voters, emphasizing, “If you come across anyone you know that’s not voting for me, tell them that Election Day’s Wednesday, Nov. 5.”
With recent polls showing Ciattarelli trailing Mikie Sherrill by just a fraction, 49% to 48%, the stakes are higher than ever. Ciattarelli acknowledged the competitive landscape, stating, “I’m not shocked by the survey’s results. I get up and down the state every day, and it’s confirming what I feel is out there.”
His supporters, many affiliated with Trump’s Corner, voiced their enthusiasm. Debbie Allen, a local supporter, expressed her commitment, stating, “I love my country,” and emphasized Ciattarelli’s New Jersey roots as a major draw. “It’s the future for them,” she said, referring to her children and grandchildren.
Reflecting on his past campaigns, Ciattarelli noted a significant shift in voter sentiment since his narrow loss in 2021. He highlighted growing concerns over the cost of living in New Jersey, stating, “The issues I was talking about in ‘21 were percolating. Today they’re at a complete boil.”
Ciattarelli also pointed out that this election presents a different challenge, as he is not competing against an incumbent like Governor Phil Murphy, who defeated him by just three percentage points in 2021. “I’m not competing with a pandemic this time around,” he remarked, showcasing his improved outlook.
With just days until the election, the focus is on voter turnout. Ciattarelli has been actively courting Latino voters, who make up nearly 22% of New Jersey’s population. Recent surveys suggest that while 53% of Hispanic registered voters lean towards Sherrill, Ciattarelli’s outreach may sway undecided voters in his favor.
As Election Day approaches, the energy among Ciattarelli’s supporters is electric. Ron Cerenzio, a newly retired voter, emphasized his concerns about taxes and living costs, declaring, “Jack’s got a detailed plan as to what he’s going to do to fix it.”
As Ciattarelli urged supporters to act quickly, he said, “Don’t wait til Tuesday. Anything can happen. Get out there and vote. This is really convenient and secure.” With the election just days away, every vote counts in this pivotal gubernatorial race.
