Politics
Who the NJGOP doesn’t want to face in the Governor’s race
In the race to become New Jersey’s next governor, perennial Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli has both Pres. Donald Trump’s support and NJGOP institutional support – thus it’s hard to imagine he won’t be the party’s nominee for a second time.
If you’re a Democratic voter and making sure Ciattarelli doesn’t win is your top priority, then this column is what you’ve been looking for. Based on conversations with Republican insiders, here’s who the NJGOP really fears:
1. Rep. Josh Gottheimer
Progressives and leftists loathe him. Nevertheless, if Gottheimer were to win the nomination, it’s checkmate for Team Jack.
The North Jersey congressman is a throwback to Clinton-era centrism, which is dependent on organizational support. Luckily for Republicans, Josh doesn’t seem to have enough of that support to win the primary.
2. Rep. Mikie Sherrill
Critics may claim Sherrill isn’t battle-tested, but what they don’t understand is that she’s tailor-made.
Tailor-made to unite the Democratic Party. Tailor-made to win over independents. Tailor-made to make “Never Jack Republicans” sit out the election.
Republicans might try to convince themselves they have a shot against Sherrill. In reality, the Giants and Jets have a better chance of making the playoffs this season.
3. Former Senate Pres. Stephen Sweeney
One thing is for sure – Ciattarelli and Sweeney would really have voters wondering who was a bigger supporter of former Gov. Chris Christie.
Without Gov. Phil Murphy’s progressive politics weighing him down, the big fear is that Sweeney can reverse positive GOP trends in South Jersey.
Republicans would happily face off against Sweeney rather than Sherrill. It’s certainly a more winnable race for Jack, but it still leans Sweeney.
4. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop
Fulop’s campaign has aggressively pitched him as the most electable Democrat in November. Ironically, he’s also the candidate Republicans are most optimistic about facing off against.
With all due respect, The Jersey City Times attacks – boosted by Sherrill’s campaign – have been amateur hour stuff. Trust that Republicans will show absolutely no mercy with Fulop and there’s a lot of Democratic bosses that will support Ciattarelli in some fashion.
Jack vs Fulop would be an epic battle and Republicans are drooling for the opportunity.
5. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka
Baraka is more of a firebrand than Fulop, yet they are remarkably similar candidates. Both are fighting for the same anti-establishment/progressive-minded voters.
The Newark mayor’s encounter with ICE at Delaney Hall hasn’t resulted in a bigger boost in the polls, disappointing Ras’ supporters and Republicans alike.
Baraka is the NJGOP’s dream candidate. Will Democratic voters make their wish come true?
6. NJEA Pres. Sean Spiller
Spiller isn’t on anyone’s radar. No feedback was available.
