New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial race is officially set: Republican Jack Ciattarelli, backed by former President Donald Trump, and Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill have secured their parties’ nominations after winning competitive primaries on June 10.
Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman, is making his third bid for governor. He narrowly lost to incumbent Gov. Phil Murphy in 2021. Once a Trump critic, he has now fully embraced the former president, receiving a personal endorsement and participating in a pro-Trump telephone rally with voters.
Sherrill, a former Navy pilot and federal prosecutor, emerged from a crowded Democratic field that included mayors and fellow congressional representatives. Her moderate stance and early support from groups like EMILY’s List helped solidify her front-runner status. The Democratic National Committee praised her win, vowing to keep the governor’s office blue.
The race is being watched nationally as a potential bellwether ahead of the 2026 midterms, particularly after Democrats’ 2024 presidential loss. It also highlights internal party debates—progressive vs. moderate—especially after rising tensions around issues like immigration and policing.
Current Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, is term-limited, leaving the seat open.
Attention now turns to Virginia’s primaries on June 17, where Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears have already secured nominations.
