New Jersey Governor Race Tightens as Republicans Hope for Shift

By James Morley III | Tuesday, 04 November 2025 10:34 AM EST

As polls opened nationwide, New Jersey State Sen. Michael Testa appeared on “Wake Up America” to discuss the closely contested governor’s race, which could signal a potential shift in the traditionally Democratic state. A new RealClearPolitics poll indicates Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli trails Democrat Mikie Sherrill by three points, positioning the GOP “within striking distance.”

Testa argued that a Republican victory would reflect voter frustration with “radical-leftist, woke ideology” and a desire for “common sense” leadership. He urged Republicans to vote in large numbers, noting their tendency to prefer Election Day voting over early or mail-in ballots. “If Republicans turn out today,” he stated, “we have a new Republican governor this evening.”

The senator emphasized rising taxes, utility costs, and grocery prices as key concerns, attributing them to Democratic policies. He referenced former President Ronald Reagan’s rhetoric, questioning whether New Jersey residents are better off under Gov. Phil Murphy, whom he claimed has left the state “weaker and poorer.”

Education and parental rights were also central to Testa’s remarks. He criticized Sherrill for opposing parental opt-outs from LGBTQ curriculum while praising Ciattarelli’s support for “parental choice.” “Parents have had enough,” Testa said, adding that they would elect Ciattarelli.

He concluded by contrasting New Jersey’s race with New York City’s mayoral election, warning that a far-left candidate in NYC could make New Jersey a destination for those fleeing poor leadership.