In a recent development in the political landscape of New Jersey, Donald Trump, the former U.S. President, officially extended his endorsement to Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli in the GOP primary race. Through a detailed post on Truth Social, Trump emphasized his support for Ciattarelli, highlighting his commitment to the โMake America Great Againโ principles.
This endorsement from Trump, made public on Monday, provides a significant push to Ciattarelliโs campaign in what is already a competitive field. Ciattarelli faces competition from two other Trump-aligned candidates as well as a state senator known for being critical of Trump. The endorsement underscores Trumpโs persistent sway over the Republican party, even in a predominantly Democratic state like New Jersey.
Although Ciattarelli had once expressed doubts over Trumpโs suitability for the presidency nearly ten years ago, his current stance shows a complete alignment with the MAGA ideology. โJack has embraced the MAGA movement wholeheartedly, and I am 100% behind him,โ Trump stated in his endorsement.
Ciattarelli responded on X, expressing his gratitude and emphasizing the need for party unity. He conveyed his focus on making New Jersey a more affordable and secure place. Meanwhile, Bill Spadea, a former radio personality and also a contender in the June 10 primary, speculated that Trumpโs endorsement could be influenced by Ciattarelliโs favorable poll numbers. Spadea criticized the endorsement, contrasting it with his own plan to bring logic and practicality back into New Jerseyโs governance.
Itโs significant to note this endorsement follows a meeting earlier this year between Trump and Ciattarelli at Trumpโs golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey. Ciattarelliโs campaign has positioned itself as dedicated to seeking Trumpโs backing, especially after the success seen in the 2024 election where certain blue counties voted Republican.
New Jersey, traditionally Democratic in presidential elections, often fluctuates in its gubernatorial results. With current Democratic Governor Phil Murphy ineligible for another term due to term limits, the race opens up substantial possibilities. The Democratic primary remains highly competitive, mirroring the charged atmosphere in the Republican race.
Along with Ciattarelli and Spadea, former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac and state Senator Jon Bramnick are also vying for the Republican nomination. Ciattarelli, a 63-year-old accountant and small business owner with an extensive background in New Jerseyโs political realm, is no stranger to gubernatorial campaigns, having previously run against Murphy and in the GOP primary against Kim Guadagno. Despite past defeats, he remains an active contender, now boosted by Trumpโs endorsement.