The 2025 Governor Election in New Jersey is set to take place on November 4, with early, in-person voting beginning on October 25. This election will not only decide the new governor but also fill all seats in the General Assembly, the state’s lower legislative chamber.
Key Candidates for New Jersey Governor
In this competitive gubernatorial race, two leading candidates have emerged:
- Mikie Sherrill: A four-term Democratic congresswoman from Montclair.
- Jack Ciattarelli: A Republican and former Assembly member from Somerville.
Polling Insights
Recent polls indicate a tight race between Sherrill and Ciattarelli. Notably:
- Sherrill holds a 7-point lead in a Fairleigh Dickinson University survey.
- Rutgers University shows Sherrill leading by five points, but within the margin of error.
- An Emerson College poll reveals a dead heat, with both candidates receiving 43% support.
Upcoming Election Details
New Jersey voters will have the opportunity to address several referendum questions in this election. These include proposals for:
- Dredging a river
- Funding open space initiatives
- Permitting cannabis businesses in select municipalities
As for the candidates’ stances on critical issues such as affordability, housing, healthcare, and education policy, both Sherrill and Ciattarelli have engaged in debates and forums discussing their plans for the state.
Debate Highlights
On October 8, both candidates faced off in a debate in New Brunswick, addressing key issues and providing insights into their platforms. Earlier, they participated in a September 21 debate, marking a significant opportunity for voter engagement.
Lieutenant Governor Candidates
The candidates for lieutenant governor include:
- Dale Caldwell: President of Centenary University, running with Mikie Sherrill.
- James Gannon: Morris County Sheriff, running with Jack Ciattarelli.
Campaign Dynamics
This gubernatorial race is drawing significant attention, seen as a referendum on national issues, including the influence of former President Donald Trump. Both parties are actively monitoring and supporting their candidates through resources and campaign funding.
As New Jersey heads toward this pivotal election, voters are encouraged to stay informed about the candidates’ distinctions and upcoming voting logistics. The 2025 Governor Election promises to be a defining moment for the Garden State.
