In a heartwarming moment on the campaign trail, New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli received an unexpected visit from his son, Army Capt. Jake Ciattarelli.
The surprise unfolded at Murphs Tavern in Totowa, New Jersey, as the elder Ciattarelli was rallying support ahead of the crucial election. Capt. Ciattarelli, who had been stationed in Kuwait, made a special trip to support his father's bid to end eight years of Democratic governance in the state.
As reported by The Washington Times, the surprise was orchestrated by Passaic County Republican Chairman Peter Murphy, who introduced the mystery guest with the words, You dont know what Im going to say right now, but your biggest supporter who serves his country just came over overnight to serve you.
The crowd erupted in applause and chants of "U.S.A.!" as the father and son embraced, with the younger Ciattarelli clad in his camouflage combat uniform. The emotional reunion was a well-kept secret, with only a select few within the campaign aware of the plan. Jake and his friends planned it, a campaign insider revealed, adding that Mr. Ciattarelli was completely in the dark and surprised by his son's appearance.
Capt. Ciattarelli, a logistics officer, was not expected to return to New Jersey until January. His father had previously expressed his anticipation on social media, counting down the days until his son's return. This poignant moment on the campaign trail is not the first time Jake has played a role in his father's political endeavors.
During the 2021 campaign against incumbent Governor Phil Murphy, the elder Ciattarelli voiced his concerns over President Biden's chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, which resulted in the tragic loss of 13 American service members and 169 Afghan civilians in a suicide bombing at Kabul International Airport.
Reflecting on the situation, Mr. Ciattarelli stated, Knowing that our son Jake, a Logistics Officer assigned to the 10th Mountain Division, and his brothers and sisters in arms, may one day be called to help clean up the mess makes it really hit home in a personal way.
This sentiment underscores the personal stakes involved for the Ciattarelli family, as they navigate both the political and military landscapes. The unexpected reunion at Murphs Tavern not only bolstered the candidate's campaign but also highlighted the deep familial bonds and patriotic spirit that resonate with many voters.
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