New Jersey governor 2025: Sherrill and Ciattarelli set for showdown; Trump’s endorsement shifts the GOP field

Democratic Rep Mikie Sherrill and Republican former state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli have secured their parties’ nominations for New Jersey governor, setting the stage for one of the two high stake governor’s races being held this year - the other being Virginia.Sherrill, a four-term Democratic congresswoman and former Navy helicopter pilot, won a competitive six-way primary. If elected, Sherrill would become New Jersey’s second female governor, following Republican Christine Todd Whitman’s two terms in the 1990s. Her candidacy comes as the state Democratic Party aims to win the governorship for a third consecutive term. Current Gov Phil Murphy, a Democrat, is term-limited and did not endorse a successor.Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli, who previously lost a narrow race to Murphy in 2021, secured his party’s nomination with backing from former President Trump. Trump’s endorsement, issued via X in the final month of the race.“I am honored to have the support of President @realDonaldTrump and so many New Jerseyans across the state. Early voting is open today & tomorrow! Election Day is Tuesday! Get out there & vote!” Ciattarelli said.

While Trump has never won New Jersey in a general election, his 2024 performance, losing the state by six points compared to 16 points in 2020, is used by Republicans as evidence of a gradual rightward shift. Ciattarelli’s campaign has tried to frame this trend in his favour. The general election is expected to feature both national and state-level issues prominently. New Jersey voters consistently bring property tax burden, high cost of living, and public education as major concerns.

Both campaigns have already begun tailoring their messages to address these local priorities while also positioning themselves in relation to broader national political dynamics.Trump, a longtime part-time resident of New Jersey with past business ties with the state, including casinos and golf properties, is expected to remain a central figure in the general election which is scheduled to be held on November 5, 2025.