UPDATE: New Jersey’s Republican gubernatorial nominee, Jack Ciattarelli, is ramping up his campaign just days before the election, joined by MAGA star Rep. Byron Donalds of Florida. As of October 22, 2025, with only days left until Election Day, polls indicate a tightening race against Democratic challenger Rep. Mikie Sherrill.
During a dynamic campaign swing across three diners in Linden, NJ, Ciattarelli expressed confidence, urging supporters, “Early voting starts this Saturday. We turn out, we win. Let’s finish strong.” The urgency is palpable, with polls showing a potential photo finish in this critical race.
Polling data from major sources, including Fox News and Quinnipiac University, reveals Ciattarelli narrowing the gap significantly with Sherrill, who is currently the front-runner. The stakes are high, as this election is one of only two gubernatorial contests nationwide this year.
Ciattarelli, making his third attempt for the governor’s office, emphasized that voter attention is heightened due to the close race. “People are paying closer attention this time around,” he stated. Notably, four recent polls indicate that Ciattarelli is making strides in a state where registered Democrats historically outnumber Republicans.
Donald’s appearance marks another significant endorsement for Ciattarelli, who nearly unseated current Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in 2021. “The wind is at our back,” Donalds proclaimed, highlighting the importance of voter turnout in the final stretch. “It’s about New Jersey and making sure that the people of the Garden State get out and vote.”
As Democrats target Ciattarelli’s alliance with MAGA figures, New Jersey’s Democratic State Committee spokesperson, Ryan Radulovacki, criticized the Republican candidate for aligning with “the furthest MAGA fringes.” With the election only days away, the intensity of the campaign is escalating, underscoring the importance of voter mobilization.
The election is particularly significant given New Jersey’s historical voting patterns. Traditionally, the state elects a governor from the party out of power in the White House, a trend that could favor Democrats this year. However, the dynamics are shifting, with Trump’s influence still palpable, as Ciattarelli recently rated the former president’s performance an “A.”
In a strategic move, former President Trump plans to hold a tele-rally for Ciattarelli to boost visibility ahead of the election. “The White House is working in close partnership with us,” Ciattarelli noted, reflecting the collaborative effort to secure a victory.
Adding to the competitive atmosphere, Sherrill’s campaign has garnered support from prominent Democratic figures, including former President Barack Obama, who is set to headline a rally in Newark, NJ, on November 1. The Democratic National Committee has also increased its financial investment in the state, injecting an additional $3 million into the campaign.
As both candidates prepare for the final push, the stakes are higher than ever. With voter turnout critical, Ciattarelli’s campaign is focused on energizing the Republican base while Sherrill rallies her support network. The outcome of this closely watched race could set the tone for the upcoming midterm elections and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates as Election Day approaches, and ensure your voice is heard!
