TOTOWA, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey Republicans are attempting to capitalize on Donald Trump’s 2024 electoral momentum, with gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli engaging voters in a pivotal, traditionally Democratic stronghold that contributed to the president’s gains in the state.
Ciattarelli, alongside Virginia candidate Winsome Earle-Sears, is actively campaigning in their respective states, while Trump is expected to connect with voters through telephone rallies. This follows the campaigning efforts of their opponents, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger, who rallied with former President Barack Obama over the weekend.
For Republicans, walking the line between energizing infrequent conservative voters while acknowledging economic concerns proves challenging. Democrats are framing the off-year election as a referendum on Trump's economic policies and his consolidation of power.
In a vibrant Irish bar in Passaic County, where Trump found unexpected support in 2024, Ciattarelli faced inquiries regarding his ties to Trump amidst concerns that he could be viewed as a liability. “New Jerseyans know who I am. I will fiercely defend the 9 million citizens of this state every day,” said Ciattarelli.
Meanwhile, Sherrill’s campaign in Morristown aimed to highlight national implications, urging constituents to consider how the new governor will confront the federal administration over funding issues. She criticized Trump’s abrupt halt to funding for a critical project involving New Jersey's aging rail tunnels to New York City.
In parallel activities in Virginia, Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin canvassed door to door, expressing confidence that focusing on affordability issues would resonate with voters on Election Day. He emphasized that personal and family economic concerns would drive voter turnout ahead of any other issue.
