New Jersey Governor Race Tightens Amid Voter Turnout, Trump Support

The 2025 New Jersey governor's race is a closely watched contest between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli, with polling showing Sherrill holding a narrow lead but the race still competitive due to voter turnout uncertainties. Both candidates have been campaigning vigorously on key issues including energy costs, housing, and taxes, with Sherrill warning that Ciattarelli would align closely with President Donald Trump, who strongly endorses Ciattarelli and criticizes Sherrill on energy policy. Ciattarelli expresses optimism about his chances, highlighting broad support including from some Democrats, and accuses Sherrill of making reckless accusations against him regarding opioid misinformation. The race is seen as a bellwether for the 2026 midterms, reflecting broader national partisan divides, especially on taxes, energy, and abortion rights. Voter enthusiasm and turnout, particularly among urban Democrats and Republicans without Trump on the ballot, are expected to be decisive factors. Both candidates are positioning themselves as agents of change, with Ciattarelli focusing on lowering energy costs and maintaining key infrastructure projects like the Gateway Project, while Sherrill emphasizes her contrast from Trump-aligned Republicans.