In a strategic move that could potentially reshape the political landscape in the traditionally Democratic stronghold of New Jersey, President Donald Trump is reportedly set to endorse Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican gubernatorial nominee, in the upcoming November elections.
This endorsement, coupled with the fundraising prowess of Trump's allies, could provide a significant boost to Ciattarelli's campaign, according to insiders privy to the discussions.
As reported by Axios, Trump's political machinery is gearing up to organize tele-rallies in support of Ciattarelli, while his allies are amassing millions of dollars for a super PAC dedicated to the Republican candidate. The current polling data paints an intriguing picture, with Ciattarelli running neck-and-neck against Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill in a state that has long been a Democratic bastion. A Republican victory in such a state would be a significant feather in the cap for the Trump camp.
The RealClearPolitics average of polls indicates a narrow lead for Sherrill, with a margin of just four percentage points over Ciattarelli. The upcoming election will determine the successor to Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat who has held the office since 2018 and is now term-limited.
The November 4 elections in New Jersey and Virginia will serve as a litmus test for voter sentiment, a crucial ten months into Trump's second term.
Senior Republican strategists believe that Trump's involvement could be instrumental in galvanizing GOP voters during an off-year election, a period typically characterized by lower voter turnout. The Republican party has faced challenges in recent years when Trump was not directly on the ballot. However, there are currently no plans for Trump to visit New Jersey in person.
Despite losing the state to then-Vice President Kamala Harris with 46% of the vote last year, Trump's endorsement could still be a game-changer. Sherrill has been attempting to link Ciattarelli to Trump throughout her campaign.
Ciattarelli, who leveraged Trump's endorsement during the GOP primary, has since distanced himself on several policy issues, including controversial claims associating Tylenol use during pregnancy with autism.
Political analysts suggest that for Ciattarelli to clinch victory, he must drive voter turnout in Trump-leaning counties such as Monmouth, Ocean, and Atlantic. During a recent debate, Ciattarelli gave Trump an "A" grade but refrained from identifying himself as part of the MAGA movement, instead aligning himself with a "New Jersey movement."
"We're appreciative of all the help we've received from the president and his team so far, and grateful for any support they provide down the stretch," said Ciattarelli strategist Chris Russell.
Trump's team is also contemplating the extent of their involvement in Virginia's statewide races. His allies are hopeful about Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares' reelection battle against Democrat Jay Jones, who has faced criticism for past text messages wishing harm upon the children of Virginia's former state House speaker.
Trump has endorsed Miyares but has yet to endorse Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, the GOP nominee for Virginia governor, who is currently trailing Democratic Representative Abigail Spanberger in the polls.
The upcoming elections in New Jersey and Virginia will undoubtedly provide a fascinating glimpse into the current political climate, the influence of Trump's endorsement, and the potential for a Republican resurgence in traditionally Democratic territories.
Login