By now, New Jersey voters have seen just about everything in this fiery governor’s race — but last night’s debate between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli took it to a new level. With less than a month until Election Day, both candidates went head-to-head in a heated exchange that felt more like a courtroom drama than a political discussion.
Congresswoman Sherrill, in a move that would make any campaign strategist cringe, accused Ciattarelli of “killing tens of thousands of people.” Yes, you read that right. Her claim? That Ciattarelli somehow profited from the opioid crisis through his former publishing company. The Republican candidate quickly fired back, calling her accusation “a lie” and a “desperate tactic from a desperate campaign.” Hard to argue with that — the Democrat’s attack line seemed like it was written in panic mode.
But Ciattarelli didn’t just take hits — he delivered them too. When asked about Sherrill’s past, he didn’t shy away from raising the Naval Academy cheating scandal that reportedly blocked her from walking at graduation. Sherrill, of course, tried to spin it as an act of “integrity.” Interesting defense for someone who’s been accused of breaking disclosure laws in Congress.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump’s name was brought up several times — because, naturally, Democrats can’t go a day without saying “Trump” at least ten times before breakfast. Ciattarelli proudly acknowledged the former president’s endorsement, even giving him an “A” for his leadership. Sherrill, predictably, responded with a failing grade and the usual talking points about “MAGA” and “extremism.”
Let’s be clear: New Jersey voters are tired of the same recycled Democratic smear tactics. Ciattarelli — a successful businessman, CPA, and lifelong Jersey resident — spoke directly about real issues like energy costs, property taxes, and Biden’s disastrous border policies fueling the fentanyl crisis. Sherrill, on the other hand, seemed more focused on throwing personal insults than offering solutions.
The debate also highlighted something Democrats don’t like to admit: Trump’s influence is still strong — even in a blue-leaning state like New Jersey. Ciattarelli understands that having a positive working relationship with whoever’s in the White House matters. That’s called leadership, not submission.
As the race tightens, it’s clear Sherrill is feeling the heat. Her campaign’s attempts to tie Ciattarelli to the opioid epidemic, the “stolen” military records drama, and the MAGA hysteria all scream one thing — desperation.
At the end of the day, New Jersey deserves a governor who focuses on results, not resentment. Ciattarelli stood tall, defended his record, and showed composure under pressure — the kind of leadership that puts people, not politics, first.
And with Election Day fast approaching, it looks like the Garden State might just be ready to turn red again.
