New Jersey Holds High-Stakes Primary With Record Spending

New Jersey voters participated in the 2025 primary election to select party nominees for the upcoming gubernatorial race and other key positions. The gubernatorial contest is highly competitive, with nearly two dozen candidates vying to succeed term-limited Governor Phil Murphy, including prominent Democrats like Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Republican frontrunner Jack Ciattarelli, who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump. Economic issues, particularly property taxes and healthcare costs, remain top concerns for voters across the state, influencing their choices in both the Democratic and Republican primaries. The election also marks the first gubernatorial primary since the abolishment of the county ballot line, affecting campaign dynamics. Political analysts highlight the geographic and demographic divides shaping the race, with candidates drawing support from different parts of the state, such as South Jersey’s machine-backed candidates versus those favored in North Jersey and major media markets. Overall, the primary features record spending and intense campaigning ahead of the general election later this year.