Trump-Backed Candidate on Verge of Turning Longtime Blue State Red, New Data Shows

In significant news regarding the forthcoming election, a National Research poll indicates that Trump-supported Republican Jack Ciattarelli is trailing Democrat Mikie Sherrill by a narrow margin of 42% to 45% in New Jersey’s gubernatorial contest, placing him within the 4% margin of error. Only 12% of voters remain undecided, and the competition is extremely close in this historically Democratic state.

To provide context, in 2021, Ciattarelli lost narrowly to Governor Phil Murphy, despite forecasts suggesting a much larger defeat. New Jersey’s shift towards Republicanism was further evidenced in 2024, as Trump managed to reduce the presidential vote disparity. Fewer than 33% of residents believe the state is on the “right track,” reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the Democratic administration’s handling of state affairs.

Adding to Ciattarelli’s momentum, a notable conservative figure remarked, “ JUST IN: A powerful and influential labor union has endorsed Trump-backed JACK CIATTARELLI for Governor of NEW JERSEY. This is significant. They supported a Democrat in the previous election. The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825 will provide campaign activists and funding for Ciattarelli. LET’S TURN NJ RED!”

In the comments section beneath his post, conservatives conveyed their aspirations for New Jersey to turn red. One particular comment stated, “This is significant. I hope we witness more unions supporting Republican candidates. For the first time, my husband’s union did not endorse anyone in November. This is likely because they are aware that the majority of their members backed Trump. Historically, they have always endorsed the Democrats.”Linking this victory to Trump’s remarkable achievements, one user remarked, “Let’s be honest. @POTUS Trump is safeguarding jobs everywhere. Trump prioritizes Main Street alongside National Security through mass deportation. Wall Street can manage on its own. Americans take precedence. College and high school students can work in the fields.

Expanding on this observation, another individual remarked, “This endorsement represents a considerable advantage for Jack Ciattarelli! It demonstrates that even labor unions recognize the importance of backing candidates endorsed by Trump, in contrast to certain factions on the left.”

Highlighting a significant challenge for the Democratic National Committee, one commentator expressed, “The Democrats have alienated the youth, minorities, and now labor; WHO DO THEY HAVE LEFT?” In agreement, a woman commented, “I sense that the momentum is shifting towards a Republican win in New Jersey.”

Adopting a more cautious perspective, one commentator remarked, “It is solely the governor, not the entire state. Let us not become overly enthusiastic. Remember that Mitt Romney served as governor of Massachusetts, the most liberal state in the country, and currently, communist Vermont has a Republican governor.”

Ciattarelli has openly expressed his strong loyalty to Trump. In a recent social media post, he supported Trump’s actions against Iran, stating, “President Trump’s choice to eliminate Iran’s nuclear program was the correct decision. A nuclear Iran would pose a serious threat to Israel and could further destabilize the Middle East. God bless our American military personnel for their expertise and bravery in executing this mission.”

In the comments section of his post, conservatives expressed their gratitude for his principled position. One comment stated, “Thank you, Jack! Remain steadfast because NJ requires true patriots in leadership! Our Commander in Chief is the one we all elected for such a time as this!”