New Jersey Gears Up for Crucial Primary Elections Ahead of 2025 Gubernatorial Vote
NEW YORK — Voters in New Jersey are preparing to head to the polls on Tuesday for pivotal primary elections that will shape the state’s gubernatorial landscape for the 2025 election. The outcomes will not only determine the Democratic and Republican nominees but may also foreshadow nationwide sentiments leading into the crucial 2026 midterms.
With current Governor Phil Murphy term-limited after two terms, six Democratic candidates are vying to maintain the party’s grip on New Jersey. Leading the pack is Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy pilot from the 11th Congressional District, though competitive challengers include Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, New Jersey Education Association President Sean Spiller, and former Senate President Steve Sweeney.
On the Republican side, the race is equally crowded as they aim to reclaim the governorship, with President Donald Trump endorsing former state assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, who narrowly lost to Murphy in 2021. Ciattarelli is up against conservative radio host Bill Spadea, state Sen. Jon Bramnick, former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac, and contractor Justin Barbera.
The primary election is poised to become the most expensive in New Jersey’s history, with over $85 million spent on advertising thus far. Notably, Gottheimer leads the Democrats in ad spending at $22.8 million, while Ciattarelli tops the Republicans with $5.9 million.
Trump’s influence looms large, with about 70% of broadcast ad airings referencing him, highlighting the high stakes for both parties as they seek to sway voters in this critical election year.
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