South Middlesex Times

The New Jersey gubernatorial race is gaining momentum as primary debates approach. Ten candidates are competing for the governorship, with the Democratic debate scheduled for February 2 and the Republican debate on February 4.

Kristoffer Shields from Rutgers Eagleton Center on the American Governor highlights the significance of this year's election due to Governor Phil Murphy being term-limited. "This year’s race is significant for New Jerseyans because we are guaranteed to elect a new governor," Shields states. He notes that New Jersey, along with Virginia, will be electing a governor in 2025, drawing national attention.

In the Republican field, former assembly member Jack Ciattarelli is running again after a narrow loss in 2021. State Sen. Jon Bramnick, radio host Bill Spadea, and former state Sen. Ed Durr are also in the race.

For Democrats, notable figures include Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and former state senate president Steve Sweeney. U.S. Reps. Josh Gottheimer and Mikie Sherrill, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and former Montclair Mayor Sean Spiller are also vying for candidacy.

Ashley Koning from Rutgers Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling discusses key issues such as affordability and cost of living. She mentions that national issues like reproductive health and critical race theory may influence local races.

Shields explains that predicting the outcome is challenging due to New Jersey's history of alternating parties in gubernatorial races despite its federal Democratic leanings. He notes several trends favor Democrats but acknowledges uncertainties regarding Republican turnout.

Koning emphasizes the importance of name recognition as voters remain disengaged post-2024 presidential election. Early polling shows many voters undecided about their party's candidates.

Shields identifies signs of a potential rightward shift in New Jersey politics based on recent election results, while Koning describes New Jersey as more politically diverse than commonly perceived.

The rebound effect might impact this election since historically, New Jersey's gubernatorial race often favors the party that lost the previous presidential election year.

Regarding President Trump or Gov. Murphy's influence, Koning suggests Trump will be central to Democratic strategies while Republicans decide how closely to align with him.