Politics

N.J. Gov race testing political mood ahead of midterms

Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli are facing off to replace a term-limited Democratic incumbent.
This combination photo shows candidates for governor of New Jersey Republican Jack Ciattarelli, left, and Democrat Mikie Sherrill during the final debate in governors race, Oct. 8, 2025, in New Brunswick, N.J. (AP Photos/Heather Khalifa)

The New Jersey race to replace term-limited Gov. Phil Murphy (D) appears set to be an early test of the nation’s political mood ahead of the midterm elections, as both parties try to harness voter sentiment in a tightening campaign.

With a week to go until Election Day, the blue state race between U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D) and former state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli (R) is drawing millions in ad spending as the candidates barnstorm the state alongside national political figures. Former President Barack Obama is scheduled to appear in person with Sherrill, while President Trump is headlining tele-rallies for Ciattarelli.

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