TOTOWA, N.J. - New Jersey Republicans are attempting to capitalize on the momentum of Donald Trump’s anticipated 2024 electoral campaign while vying for voter support in Democratic strongholds. Gubernatorial hopeful Jack Ciattarelli is visiting areas that previously showcased Trump’s strength.
Ciattarelli, alongside Virginia's Winsome Earle-Sears, are traversing their respective states ahead of Tuesday’s elections, intending to rally base support while echoing Trump’s populist themes. In contrast, their opponents, Democratic candidates U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger, have rallied support through appearances with former President Barack Obama.
With both parties keenly aware of the stakes, Republicans are looking to attract infrequent conservative voters while addressing rising economic concerns that weigh on voter minds. Sherrill hopes to frame the election as a referendum on Trump’s economic policies.
Ciattarelli made a notable appearance at an Irish bar in Passaic County, where the Justice Department has deployed poll watchers, highlighting the area’s significance in the upcoming election. As scrutiny around the absence of Trump on the campaign trail grows, Ciattarelli's responses to media inquiries about his affiliation with the former president remain critical to his campaign narrative.
“New Jerseyans know who I am. I will fiercely defend the 9 million citizens of this state every day,” he insisted.
The event was further enriched by an unexpected visit from Ciattarelli’s son, Army Capt. Jake Ciattarelli, who flew in from Kuwait, underscoring the personal commitments many candidates make during their campaigns amid the demanding political landscape.
Democrat Sherrill took her campaign to Morristown, aiming to remind voters of the need for strong leadership to navigate federal challenges, particularly in light of Trump's recent funding freezes on vital infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin emphasized the focus on economic issues as a cornerstone of their strategy in Virginia, reflecting broader sentiments prevalent among voters.
