Democratic stronghold New Jersey could soon turn red, according to President Donald Trump, who believes the state is primed to reject what he described as the “Democratic horror show.” In a tele-rally Monday night, Trump threw his full support behind Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, a former state lawmaker who has emerged as the GOP front-runner.
As reported by Daily Mail, Trump expressed confidence in New Jersey's shift, citing a surge in Republican momentum following his performance in the 2024 presidential election. He urged voters to reject the state’s current Democratic leadership, warning of economic decline and escalating crime if Democrats retain control.
The tele-rally, which lasted about ten minutes, was part of Trump’s broader strategy to energize Republican voters in New Jersey. Ciattarelli, who nearly unseated Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in 2021, is viewed as the GOP’s best hope of flipping the statehouse red for the first time in over a decade.
During the rally, Trump implored New Jersey residents to embrace change. “New Jersey is ready to pop out of that blue horror show and really get in there and vote for somebody that’s going to make things happen,” the president said. He painted a grim picture of the state under Democratic leadership, criticizing high taxes, sanctuary policies, and what he called a “nightmare of chaos and crime.”
Trump’s recent successes in New Jersey, where he reduced the margin of his presidential loss to Kamala Harris to just five points in 2024, have bolstered Republican optimism. This marked a 10-point improvement from his 2020 performance and was the best showing for a Republican presidential candidate in the state since 1992.
Ciattarelli echoed Trump’s sentiments, pledging to end sanctuary policies for illegal immigrants through his first executive order if elected. He also vowed to appoint an attorney general who would avoid partisan lawsuits against the federal government, a stark contrast to the current Democratic administration.
While Ciattarelli is the favorite to secure the Republican nomination in the June 10 primary, he faces competition from several GOP candidates, including former radio talk show host Bill Spadea and State Senator Jon Bramnick. However, Ciattarelli’s near-upset of Murphy in 2021 and his alignment with Trump’s policies have established him as the party’s leading contender.
On the Democratic side, the field remains crowded. Potential challengers include Reps. Josh Gottheimer and Mikie Sherrill, Mayors Ras Baraka of Newark and Steven Fulop of Jersey City, former State Senate President Steve Sweeney, and teacher’s union president Sean Spiller. Democrats hold a significant voter registration advantage in New Jersey, but independents, who make up a large voting bloc, could tilt the scales in favor of the Republicans.
Despite Murphy’s narrow 2021 victory—winning with only 51.22% of the vote—the Democratic Party is grappling with internal divisions and voter dissatisfaction. Ciattarelli has already hinted at potential attacks on the party’s record, calling its eight years in control of the governorship and two decades in the legislature a failure.
Republicans are banking on voter frustration with high taxes, crime, and what they perceive as Democratic overreach to drive turnout in their favor. Trump’s involvement in New Jersey’s gubernatorial race reflects a broader GOP strategy to make gains in traditionally Democratic states.
During his tele-rally, Trump also criticized the state’s sanctuary policies, which limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Ciattarelli has positioned himself as a staunch opponent of such policies, further aligning himself with Trump’s agenda.
Trump’s influence in New Jersey has grown in recent years, buoyed by large rallies and a base energized by his rhetoric. At a Jersey Shore rally in Wildwood last year, Trump mocked former Governor Chris Christie while emphasizing local issues. His ability to connect with voters over relatable topics, such as eating hot dogs by the Ferris wheel, has helped him build a unique connection with the state’s electorate.
Jack Ciattarelli’s campaign to lead New Jersey marks a critical juncture for the state’s political landscape. His near-win in 2021 and Trump’s growing influence in the Garden State have Republicans optimistic about flipping the governorship. The GOP hopes to capitalize on frustrations with Democratic leadership and energize independent voters who could swing the election.
Democrats, meanwhile, face the challenge of uniting behind a candidate in a competitive primary. With a wide field of contenders, including high-profile representatives and local leaders, the party will need to address voter concerns over taxes and public safety to maintain control of the statehouse.
This year’s gubernatorial race could serve as a bellwether for the GOP’s ability to make inroads in traditionally Democratic states. Early voting has already begun, and both parties are gearing up for what promises to be a closely watched election.
